Osteopathic Physician
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Osteopathic Physician is focused on understanding and solving problems related to conditions of the human body. Osteopathic Physicians often seek to understand the interconnected nature of the human body and treat patients in a holistic manner. These medical professionals pay special attention to the human body's ability to heal itself and ways to support that healing process through the use of osteopathic manipulative treatment, or OMT. An Osteopathic Physician’s treatment approach integrates conventional medical approaches with the principles of OMT.
Understanding Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
Osteopathic manipulative treatment is the practice of using the hands to diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. OMT is based on the idea that the body is a self-healing organism and that the physician can help facilitate that healing process by manipulating the body's structure. Common conditions that are addressed using OMT include musculoskeletal pain, headaches, and digestive problems.
The Role of an Osteopathic Physician
Osteopathic Physicians are licensed to prescribe medications and perform surgery, just like other physicians. However, they often take a more holistic approach to patient care, considering the whole person rather than just the symptoms of the illness. Osteopathic Physicians may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Some Osteopathic Physicians choose to specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as pediatrics, internal medicine, or surgery.
Education and Training
To become an Osteopathic Physician, you must first complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. You must then complete four years of medical school at an accredited osteopathic medical school. After graduating from medical school, you must complete a residency program in an approved specialty. This typically takes three to seven years.
