When seeking medical care in the United States, patients encounter two main types of physicians: the Doctor of Medicine (MD) and the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). An MD practices allopathic medicine, the conventional, science-based approach. A DO practices osteopathic medicine, which incorporates conventional methods while emphasizing a distinct philosophy of care. Both are equally qualified to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. Understanding the similarities and differences between these degrees can help you choose a healthcare provider.
Training, Certification, and Scope of Practice
Both MDs and DOs complete an equivalent educational pathway to practice medicine. Students pursuing either degree must complete four years of undergraduate education, followed by four years of medical school. This training covers core biomedical sciences, pharmacology, pathology, and clinical rotations across various specialties.
The next step is a residency program, which provides three to seven years of hands-on, specialized training in a chosen field, such as surgery or internal medicine. Since 2020, both MD and DO graduates train within the same unified residency accreditation system. After residency, both must pass state licensing examinations, granting them the same legal rights to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and admit patients to hospitals in all 50 states.
The parity in their professional scope means both are fully trained physicians capable of managing any medical condition. Although the DO degree is less common—about one in ten physicians in the U.S. holds a DO—their professional capabilities and standing are identical to those of their MD colleagues.
The Core Difference in Medical Philosophy
The distinction between an MD and a DO lies in the philosophical approach to patient care. Allopathic medicine, practiced by MDs, traditionally focuses on identifying a specific disease or injury and applying targeted treatments like pharmaceuticals or surgery. Osteopathic medicine, in contrast, is rooted in a holistic philosophy, treating the patient as an integrated unit of body, mind, and spirit.
A DO is trained to consider how a patient’s lifestyle, environment, and overall well-being interact with their symptoms. The osteopathic approach emphasizes the body’s innate capacity for self-healing and the interconnectedness of the musculoskeletal system with general health. This emphasis requires DO students to complete at least 200 additional hours of specialized training.
This training focuses on Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a system of hands-on techniques used to diagnose, treat, and prevent issues. OMT involves applying specific movements, gentle pressure, and stretching to muscles, joints, and tissues to correct structural imbalances and improve function. While all DOs are trained in OMT, not all use it regularly, especially those in specialized fields like radiology or surgery. For DOs specializing in primary care, OMT can serve as a non-invasive, drug-free tool to treat conditions like back pain and migraines.
Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Needs
When deciding which doctor to see, the MD versus DO distinction is often less important than practical factors affecting your care experience. Patients should prioritize finding a physician whose specialty aligns with their medical needs. Both MDs and DOs practice in every medical specialty, whether you require a cardiologist, a dermatologist, or a pediatrician.
Focusing on a doctor’s practical experience, reputation, and hospital affiliations is more beneficial than their degree type. You should also verify the physician is within your insurance network and consider the convenience of their office location and hours. The relationship is built on communication, so assessing a provider’s bedside manner and ability to clearly explain diagnoses and treatment plans is important.
For patients interested in a preventative, whole-person approach or non-pharmacological treatments for musculoskeletal issues, seeking a DO who actively incorporates OMT may be beneficial. If your primary concern is highly specialized, symptom-focused intervention, an MD practicing the allopathic model may align with your expectations. The best choice is the physician who is competent, communicates effectively, and makes you feel comfortable.