A DO pediatrician is a fully licensed medical doctor specializing in the health and medical care of children, infants, and adolescents. Parents choosing a doctor often encounter physicians with two degrees: Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). The primary difference lies in the philosophy of care and the inclusion of a specialized hands-on treatment technique. This distinction offers a unique approach, combining conventional medicine with a focus on the body’s natural ability to heal.
Understanding the DO Medical Degree
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a physician who has completed four years of medical school at an osteopathic institution. The curriculum is equivalent to that of allopathic (MD) medical schools, covering the same core sciences like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. After medical school, DOs complete the same rigorous residency and fellowship programs as their MD counterparts, often training side-by-side in accredited pediatric programs.
DOs are fully licensed to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states. This means a DO pediatrician has the exact same prescriptive authority and scope of practice as an MD pediatrician. DO training includes the same requirements for board certification, with DOs having the option to be certified by either the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) or the American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics (AOBP). A DO pediatrician is a qualified, fully trained specialist who provides comprehensive medical care, including vaccinations, well-child visits, diagnosis, and treatment of illness.
The Holistic Philosophy of Osteopathic Pediatrics
The philosophical foundation of osteopathic medicine distinguishes the DO approach to pediatric care. This philosophy views the child as an integrated whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. A DO pediatrician considers all aspects of a child’s life—including their environment, nutrition, and family dynamics—when making a diagnosis and creating a treatment plan.
Osteopathic physicians emphasize the body’s innate capacity for self-regulation and self-healing. This focus guides their approach to wellness, placing a stronger emphasis on preventative care and health maintenance rather than simply treating symptoms. The doctor seeks to identify and correct structural imbalances that may be hindering the body’s natural functions.
The approach recognizes that structure and function are reciprocally interrelated; a problem in one area can affect a seemingly unrelated area. For a child, this might mean a mechanical strain from birth or a postural issue could contribute to chronic ear infections. This holistic view shifts the healthcare model to a patient-centered one, supporting the child’s overall health trajectory.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) for Children
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is the hands-on diagnostic and treatment tool unique to DO physicians. During their medical training, DOs receive additional education, typically 300 to 500 hours, specifically focused on this manual technique. OMT uses gentle pressure, stretching, and resistance to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury.
For children, OMT techniques are adapted to be subtle and gentle, often involving soft tissue massage or mild pressure to the head, spine, or limbs. The goal of the manipulation is to restore proper alignment, improve nerve and circulation function, and support the body’s self-healing mechanisms. OMT can be used as a supplementary treatment for common pediatric conditions.
OMT can be beneficial in managing conditions like chronic ear infections by using techniques to help drain middle ear effusions. It has also been shown to help with issues such as infant colic, reducing excessive crying, and managing asthma symptoms by addressing musculoskeletal components affecting the respiratory system. A DO pediatrician integrates OMT alongside conventional medical treatments to address structural components of a child’s health that medication alone may not address.
Choosing a DO Pediatrician and Scope of Practice
Parents considering a DO pediatrician should understand they are choosing a fully licensed medical doctor with specialized training in pediatrics. The scope of practice for a DO pediatrician is identical to that of an MD pediatrician. This covers everything from regular check-ups and preventative screenings to prescribing medication and managing complex illnesses.
Parents can verify credentials by confirming the physician’s board certification, held by either the American Board of Pediatrics or the American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics. Insurance coverage is generally the same for both DOs and MDs, but confirming the doctor is in-network is prudent. Choosing a DO pediatrician means selecting a physician who combines the full range of conventional pediatric medicine with a distinct, holistic philosophy that may include hands-on therapeutic options.