If you’ve ever looked for a new doctor, you’ve probably noticed some have “MD” after their name, while others have “DO.” That might leave you wondering:
Are osteopathic doctors as good as medical doctors?
The short answer is: Yes. Absolutely.
But there are some key differences worth understanding.
Let’s break down what makes DOs and MDs similar, how they’re trained, and why both are fully qualified to care for your health.
What’s the Difference Between a DO and an MD?
| Category | MD (Doctor of Medicine) | DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) |
|---|---|---|
| Degree | Doctor of Medicine | Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine |
| Philosophy | Focuses on diagnosing and treating disease | Whole-person, holistic approach to healing |
| Training | 4 years med school + residency | 4 years med school + residency + OMT training |
| Manipulative Treatment | Not included | Includes Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) |
| Licensing | Licensed in all 50 U.S. states | Licensed in all 50 U.S. states |
| Specialties | All medical specialties | All medical specialties |
Are DOs Real Doctors?
Yes. DOs are fully licensed physicians.
They can:
- Prescribe medications
- Perform surgeries
- Practice in hospitals or private clinics
- Specialize in any medical field—family medicine, cardiology, surgery, psychiatry, etc.
Just like MDs, they pass national board exams, complete residencies, and go through years of rigorous education and training.
What Makes a DO Unique?
Osteopathic doctors receive additional training in something called Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)—a hands-on method of diagnosing and treating physical imbalances in the body.
They also emphasize:
- Preventive care
- Natural healing
- Treating the whole person, not just symptoms
This doesn’t mean they avoid medications or surgery—it just means they consider more options and often combine conventional and holistic approaches.
Are DOs Less Competitive Than MDs?
This is a common myth.
It’s true that DO schools historically had slightly lower admission rates for test scores, but that doesn’t reflect on the quality of the doctors. Today, many DO students have top academic records and choose osteopathic schools because of the holistic philosophy.
DOs now work in top hospitals, lead major research, and match into highly competitive specialties—just like their MD counterparts.
Do Patients Notice a Difference?
In most cases, you probably won’t notice a difference unless your DO uses OMT techniques or explains their osteopathic approach.
In fact, many patients report that DOs:
- Spend more time listening
- Focus more on lifestyle and preventive care
- Use touch-based assessments or therapy
When Should You Choose a DO?
Choose a DO if you’re looking for:
- A physician who looks at your full lifestyle, not just symptoms
- A blend of conventional and holistic care
- Manual treatment options like OMT for pain, tension, or mobility
- A trusted family doctor with a whole-person mindset
But truthfully—both DOs and MDs can provide excellent care.
Final Verdict
Yes—DOs are just as good as MDs.
They go through the same licensing, same medical education, and often treat the same conditions. The difference comes down to philosophy and approach, not quality.
So next time you see “DO” after a name, know that you’re in qualified, compassionate hands—just like with any great MD.