The Evolution of Osteopathic Medicine: A Profession in Transition

Strategic Insights -

Osteopathic medicine has witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of doctors of osteopathic medicine (D.O.s) over the last decade, with a growth of 70 percent. This surge is attributed to the expansion of osteopathic schools, with 14 new campuses opening in the last five years. As a result, more than a quarter of all medical students in the United States are training to become D.O.s, making it a profession in its prime. Despite its rising popularity, the public remains largely unaware of the distinct characteristics of osteopathic medicine.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of D.O.s has grown 70 percent in the last decade, with a projected continued expansion.
  • Over a quarter of all medical students in the United States are training to become D.O.s.
  • Osteopathic schools have opened 14 new campuses in the last five years, expanding the profession's presence.
  • D.O.s are increasingly taking leadership positions in top medical systems, government, and academia, including overseeing NASA's medical team and the president's medical care.
  • Research has found no significant differences between D.O.s and M.D.s in terms of hospital readmissions, death after hospitalizations, surgery outcomes, and other patient metrics.
  • Despite their original philosophy, most D.O.s do not use osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) techniques in their practice.
  • D.O.s are disproportionately found in rural areas and primary care practices, with nearly 60 percent of D.O.s working in primary care.

Statistics:

  • 70 percent increase in the number of D.O.s over the last decade.
  • Over 25 percent of all medical students in the United States are training to become D.O.s.
  • 14 new osteopathic schools have opened in the last five years.
  • 60 percent of D.O.s work in primary care practices (compared to M.D.s).
  • Osteopathic medical schools produce more rural doctors than M.D. programs.

Sources:

  • Dr. Teresa A. Hubka, President of the American Osteopathic Association
  • Dr. Christina Weaver, Associate Dean at A.T. Still University's School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
  • Norman Gevitz, Sociologist and author of a book on osteopathic medicine
  • Dr. Anita Skariah, Primary Care Provider at UNC Health in North Carolina
  • Dr. John Licciardone, Researcher at the University of North Texas' Health Science Center.