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Osteopathic medicine is one of the two health fields
nationally recognized as complete schools of medicine.
Osteopathic
Physician
Its practitioners, osteopathic physicians,
also known as Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), diagnose and
treat all illnesses and injuries and emphasize preventive care,
with special emphasis on: the need for integrated function of all body
systems; the importance of the musculoskeletal system
(muscles, bones, and joints); to apply these principles
to wellness and illness, DOs use manipulative therapy, along with
medication, surgery, and all other therapies when needed. Osteopathic physicians are licensed in all 50 states for the full practice of medicine.
Areas of Specialization
More than half of osteopathic physicians are in primary care fields:
family practitioners, pediatricians, and internists. The remainder
specialize in fields such as surgery, obstetrics, gynecology, neurology,
psychiatry, or any of the more than fifty recognized medical specialties.
Work Environment
Osteopathic physicians work in private offices, hospitals, and other
health care settings. They are more likely to practice in rural
areas and small towns than allopathic physicians. Osteopathic physicians
also hold salaried positions in hospitals, colleges, private industry,
and government agencies.
Job Outlook
See "Job Outlook" under Doctor of Medicine.
Length of Training/Requirements
Virtually all students entering colleges of osteopathic medicine
have bachelor's degrees and have completed required courses in the
sciences, English, and other subjects. All candidates must take
the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). The four-year program
in osteopathic medicine leads to the degree of Doctor of Osteopathic
Medicine. Nova Southeastern University also offers a seven-year
dual BS/DO degree (see academic advisor). Most graduates then spend
one year of internship in an osteopathic or military hospital. Those
who specialize must spend an additional two to seven years of training
in the specialty area.
Licensure/Certification
All states, including Florida, require physicians to be licensed
to practice medicine. Licensure requires graduation from a college
of osteopathic medicine that is approved by the American Osteopathic
Association (AOA), completion of an internship or at least 12 months
in an approved hospital, and successfully passing the national licensing
examination. Certification is available by Osteopathic Specialty
Boards in all specialized fields of medicine and surgery. A prerequisite
for license renewal in Florida and most other states are specified
continuing medical education hours every two years.
Updated: 2009 |
