The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) describes Osteopathic Medicine as “…a philosophy and practice of physician care in the United States, distinct in its whole-person approach and pioneering in its conceptualization of ‘wellness.'”
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, or DOs, use a whole-person approach in their practice, including partnering with patients, considering the connection of body, mind and spirit in delivering care, and recognizing the role of a physician’s hands to diagnose and treat illness or injury. An emphasis on prevention and wellness is central in a philosophy that promotes the body’s natural tendency toward health and self-healing.
DOs graduate from a college of osteopathic medicine and complete subsequent specialty training in residency programs and fellowships in hospitals, community health centers or other clinical settings.