What is the difference between MD and DO doctors?
The primary difference is the type of post-graduate school they attend. MDs (Medical Doctors) attend a college or school of medicine, and DOs (Dr. of Osteopathy) attend an Osteopathic College. Historically, the philosophies of the two disciplines were quite different, with MDs being trained more in the use of drugs and surgery to treat symptoms and causes of illness. DOs relied more on addressing the organic cause(s) of disease or illness. Osteopathy emphasizes the role of the musculoskeletal system in illness and disease, yet still incorporates drugs and surgery as valid treatment modalities. It is important to realize that both MDs and DOs complete 4 year post-grad programs, and must pass the same licensing exam to be admitted to practice. Over the past several decades, the line between the two disciplines has become less and less defined. MDs and DOs practice side-by-side in most hospitals, and many practice groups are made up of a combination of the two types of diplomates.
