Differences between Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Contents
Doctor of Medicine vs. Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
In the United States, individuals seeking to become physicians can pursue one of two degrees: a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).[1] Both degrees require the completion of a four-year medical school program followed by a residency of three to seven years.[2][3] Holders of either degree are licensed as physicians in all 50 states and have the same practice rights, including the ability to prescribe medication and perform surgery.[4][3] The two degrees are considered to have the same level of qualification.[5]
While the educational paths are similar, the core distinction lies in their philosophies of care.[1] MD programs are based on an allopathic model, which focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, often with medications or surgery.[4] DO programs are based on an osteopathic model, which takes a more holistic approach, considering the patient as a whole and focusing on preventative care.[5][4]
Comparison Table
| Category | Doctor of Medicine (MD) | Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Philosophy | Allopathic: Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases.[1][4] | Osteopathic: A holistic approach focusing on the whole body and preventative care.[1] |
| Additional Training | None | Receives at least 200 additional hours of training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT).[1][5] |
| Licensing Exams | United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).[3] | Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA).[3] DO students may also take the USMLE. |
| Practice Emphasis | Tend to specialize at a higher rate. | More likely to enter primary care fields like family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics.[4] |
| International Recognition | Widely recognized internationally. | Practice rights in over 65 countries, with recognition expanding. The scope of practice can vary by country. |
Education and Training
The curriculum for both MD and DO programs is largely identical, covering foundational sciences and clinical rotations.[5] The primary educational difference is that DO students must complete a minimum of 200 additional hours of training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT).[1][3] OMT is a set of hands-on techniques used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness by moving a patient's muscles and joints. This training informs the osteopathic approach of considering the interconnectedness of the body's systems.[2]
Licensing and Practice
To become licensed, MD graduates must pass the USMLE, while DO graduates must pass the COMLEX-USA.[3] The two exams are similar in content, but the COMLEX includes additional questions related to osteopathic principles. Many DO students also opt to take the USMLE to be more competitive for residency programs that are historically more familiar with that exam.
Both MDs and DOs are eligible for the same residency programs and can practice in any medical specialty.[2][4] Historically, a higher percentage of DOs choose to practice in primary care specialties compared to their MD counterparts.
Internationally, the MD degree is more universally recognized. However, the recognition of the DO degree has been increasing. As of 2024, DOs have full practice rights in over 65 countries. In 2018, the International Labour Organization, a United Nations agency, classified U.S.-trained DOs as physicians, distinct from non-physician osteopaths trained elsewhere.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 "medicalnewstoday.com". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "umhs-sk.org". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "ucla.edu". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 "pcom.edu". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "mua.edu". Retrieved January 27, 2026.
