DO vs MD: What’s The Difference?

When you're looking for a new doctor, you will come across two types of physicians: MDs (Doctors of Medicine) and DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine). Both hold the title “Doctor” and have the same treatment capabilities and nearly identical training. So which one do you choose? The key in selecting a provider is finding one that aligns with your unique needs, and it is the philosophy of care that ultimately distinguishes a DO vs MD. Let’s take a closer look at that philosophy of care and a couple other important distinctions between the two titles. 

What Is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)?

A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who practices in all areas of medicine, from primary care to surgery. While they receive training comparable to that of Doctors of Medicine (MDs), DOs take an additional, holistic approach to care. This includes 200 hours minimum of training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on technique used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury by moving muscles and joints.

DOs emphasize the mind-body connection and the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Their philosophy is built around treating the whole person, not just the disease.

Training Requirements: DO vs MD

Both DOs and MDs begin their journey with a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field, and must take the MCAT to apply to medical school. Once admitted, both complete four years of rigorous medical education. DOs attend osteopathic medical schools while MDs attend allopathic medical schools. 

During school, both DO and MD students study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine. However, DO students receive additional training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). This involves over 200 hours dedicated to learning hands-on techniques that focus on the musculoskeletal system. The word itself, osteopathy, comes from the Greek osteo, meaning bones, and pathos, meaning disease. This is to distinguish the title and underscore the additional training in joints, bones, and muscle. 

After medical school, both DOs and MDs go through the same residency match system (NRMP) to secure positions in various specialties. They complete anywhere from three to seven years of residency training, depending on their chosen field.

To become licensed, MDs must pass the USMLE exams, while DOs take the COMLEX exams. Many DOs also take the USMLE to remain competitive in all residency programs.

Basically, the core education and clinical training of DOs and MDs are virtually identical, with the primary difference being the osteopathic philosophy and OMT training that DOs receive. Both are equally qualified to diagnose, treat, prescribe, and perform surgery in every state.

Summary of Requirements of DO vs MD

REQUIREMENT	DO	MD
Undergraduate Degree	Bachelor’s	Bachelor’s
Entrance Exam	MCAT	MCAT
Medical School Duration	4 years	4 years
Medical School	Osteopathic Med School	Allopathic Med School
Residency	National Residency Matching Program (NRMP)	NRMP
Post Grad Training	3-7 years	3-7 years
Licensure & Board Certification	State medical boards; COMLEX or USMLE	State medical boards; USMLE
OMT Training	200+ hours	Not part of standard curriculum

Why Would Someone Choose to Become a DO vs MD?

While both DO and MD programs lead to becoming licensed physicians, many students are drawn to osteopathic medical schools because of their distinct philosophy of care. Osteopathic medicine is built on the principle that the body is an integrated whole: a complex, interconnected system of mind, body, and spirit. Rather than isolating symptoms or diseases, DOs are trained to look at how various systems influence one another and how lifestyle, environment, and emotional well-being contribute to overall health. 

This whole-person approach is deeply rooted in preventive medicine. DO students are taught to prioritize long-term wellness over simply treating immediate illness. For example, an MD might prescribe a medication to manage high blood pressure. A DO would, too, when needed, but the DO may also spend additional time discussing the patient’s stress levels, diet, posture, or sleep habits, and offer osteopathic techniques to relieve tension or improve circulation.

Another defining feature of DO training is the extensive OMT training. This isn’t just a complementary skill; it reflects a belief that the body’s infrastructure and overall wellness are intertwined. With OMT, DOs use their hands to gently manipulate joints, muscles, and tissues to improve alignment, support the nervous system, and stimulate the body's self-healing processes.

Can a DO Become a Specialist?

Absolutely. DOs practice in all specialties, including:

• Dermatology
• Orthopedic surgery
• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Psychiatry
• Emergency medicine

While some competitive specialties have historically favored MDs, this gap has narrowed considerably in recent years. The single accreditation system (ACGME) means that DOs and MDs now apply to the same residency programs.

Is There Anything an MD Can Do That a DO Cannot?

Legally and clinically, no. DOs and MDs have equal rights and privileges in all 50 U.S. states. Both can:

• Prescribe medications
• Perform surgeries
• Deliver babies
• Lead hospital departments
• Teach in academic medicine
• Conduct research

There may be perceptual or institutional biases in some elite academic or research-focused programs, which can slightly favor MDs, but these barriers are continually diminishing. 

Why Patients Choose DO vs MD

OMT Training

One reason patients choose DOs is their extensive training in musculoskeletal manipulation. OMT has been shown to be highly beneficial for a variety of conditions (and not limited to the musculoskeletal system):

• Chronic pain (back, neck)
• Sports injuries
• Migraines
• Joint restrictions
• Postural issues
• Pregnancy discomfort
• Asthma, especially in pediatric patients
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Lower urinary tract symptoms in women
• Sinus pain/pressure

Holistic Approach

Another reason patients are trending toward DO vs MD is their holistic approach and emphasis on preventive care. Many are frustrated with what might be called a cookie cutter approach: treating all patients with similar symptoms with the same therapies.  

DOs take the whole, individual person into account. What works for one patient may not work for another. Osteopathic medicine addresses symptoms, yes, but also contributing factors that may be causing or worsening those symptoms. Your diet, exercise routine, sleep hygiene, and mental health are all just as important as any medication or other intervention. 

Holistic Psychotherapy In Destin

At The Crane Center in Destin, Fl, we apply osteopathic medicine’s holistic approach to our counseling services. We offer unique, customized solutions to help each of our patients succeed in their own way. This includes lifestyle changes, nutrition, and alternative therapies, like ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Don’t struggle any longer: text our office today and get started feeling better now.