When it comes to health and medicine professions, there are two main types of doctors: MDs and DOs. Both MDs and DOs are qualified to practice medicine, but there are some key differences between the two. MD stands for Medical Doctor, and it is the most common type of doctor in the United States. MDs are trained in all areas of medicine, including surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, and more.
They are also trained in the latest medical technologies and treatments. DOs, or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, are also qualified to practice medicine. However, they have a different approach to healthcare than MDs. DOs focus on treating the whole person, rather than just treating the symptoms of a disease or illness.
They use a combination of traditional medical treatments and holistic approaches such as nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes to help their patients achieve optimal health. Another key difference between MDs and DOs is their training. MDs typically attend a four-year medical school program after completing their undergraduate degree. DOs attend a four-year osteopathic medical school program that includes additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM).
OMM is a hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating illnesses that focuses on the body's musculoskeletal system. MDs and DOs both have to pass a licensing exam in order to practice medicine in the United States. However, DOs must also pass an additional exam that tests their knowledge of OMM. In terms of salary, MDs tend to earn more than DOs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for an MD in 2019 was $208,000, while the median annual salary for a DO was $208,000. Overall, both MDs and DOs are qualified to practice medicine in the United States. However, there are some key differences between the two types of doctors. MDs are trained in all areas of medicine and use traditional medical treatments to treat their patients.
DOs focus on treating the whole person and use a combination of traditional medical treatments and holistic approaches such as nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes to help their patients achieve optimal health.