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DO vs. MD: Choosing the Right Path in Medicine
Vivaan Gupta
July 10, 2024
What type of Doctor do you want to become?
The path to becoming a doctor can be exciting yet daunting. You've aced your biology classes, shadowed physicians, and now the big question looms: MD or DO? Both paths lead to rewarding careers in medicine, but the journeys and philosophies differ slightly. Let's delve into the world of DOs and MDs to help you pick the right fit for your aspirations.
Educational Background:
MD (Doctor of Medicine): This is the traditional path followed by most physicians in the United States. MD programs focus heavily on the science behind diseases, emphasizing pharmacology, physiology, and pathology. After a four-year undergraduate degree, aspiring MDs attend a four-year medical school followed by residency training in their chosen specialty.
DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine): DO programs take a more holistic approach to medicine, integrating the musculoskeletal system into their curriculum alongside traditional medical sciences. DO students learn a technique called Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), which involves using hands-on techniques to manipulate muscles and joints to potentially improve the body's functionality and overall health. The educational path for DOs mirrors that of MDs: four years of undergraduate studies, four years of osteopathic medical school, and residency training in a chosen specialty.
Philosophical Approach:
MDs: Traditional medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases primarily through medications, surgery, and other interventions. The emphasis lies on the specific disease and its underlying pathology.
DOs: Osteopathic medicine adopts a more holistic approach, considering the body's musculoskeletal system and its influence on overall health. DOs believe in treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – and may utilize OMM alongside traditional medical practices.
Scope of Practice:
MDs and DOs: Both MDs and DOs can practice medicine in all 50 states, perform surgery (after proper training), prescribe medications, and specialize in various fields like cardiology, pediatrics, or neurology.
Similarities:
Both MDs and DOs share the same core goal: to improve patient health and well-being. They undergo rigorous training, residency programs, and pass the same licensing exams to practice medicine.
Choosing Your Path:
There's no single "right" answer. Consider your interests:
Drawn to the scientific basis of disease? MD might be a good fit.
Interested in a more holistic approach? DO might be the way to go.
Intrigued by the potential benefits of OMM? Consider DO training.
Ultimately, both MDs and DOs play vital roles in the healthcare system. The choice comes down to the approach to medicine that resonates most with you.
Feature | MD | DO |
|---|---|---|
Educational Focus | Disease science, pharmacology, physiology, pathology | Holistic approach, musculoskeletal system integration, OMM |
Philosophical Approach | Disease-centered | Patient-centered, holistic |
Residency Training | Yes, in chosen specialty | Yes, in chosen specialty |
Scope of Practice | Can practice medicine in all 50 states, specialize | Can practice medicine in all 50 states, specialize |
Licensing Exam | Must pass USMLE exams | Must pass COMLEX exams |
Average Salary | $189,000 - $363,000 (depending on specialty, years of experience, location) | $183,000 - $312,000 (depending on specialty, years of experience, location) |