What Does the Do Mean Behind a Doctor's Name?

The medical profession is one of the most respected and important fields in the world. Doctors are responsible for the health and well-being of millions of people, and their expertise and knowledge are essential for the functioning of society. However, with so many different types of medical degrees and titles, it can be confusing to understand what each one means. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the 'DO' title and the different types of medical degrees that exist.

Before we dive into the meaning behind the 'DO' title, let's first take a look at the different types of medical degrees that exist. The most common types of medical degrees are Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). However, there are also other types of degrees, such as Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), and Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Each of these degrees requires a different type of education and training, and each one is specific to a particular area of medicine.

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree is the most common type of medical degree in the United States. This degree is awarded to individuals who have completed a four-year medical school program and have passed the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). MDs are trained in the allopathic approach to medicine, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases using drugs, surgery, and other medical interventions.

The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree is another type of medical degree that is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. DOs are trained in the osteopathic approach to medicine, which focuses on the whole person, rather than just the disease. This approach emphasizes the body's ability to heal itself and the importance of preventive care. DOs receive the same medical education and training as MDs, but they also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), which involves using hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems.

Now that we understand the difference between MDs and DOs, let's take a closer look at the meaning behind the 'DO' title. The 'DO' stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, which is the degree that DOs receive after completing their medical education and training. This title is used to distinguish DOs from MDs, who have a different type of medical degree. However, it's important to note that both MDs and DOs are licensed physicians who are qualified to practice medicine.

To become a DO, individuals must complete a four-year medical school program, just like MDs. However, DOs also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), which involves using hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems. This training is designed to help DOs understand the connection between the body's structure and function and to use this knowledge to promote healing and prevent disease. After completing their medical education and training, DOs must pass the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) to become licensed to practice medicine.

DOs are licensed physicians who are qualified to practice medicine in the same way as MDs. They can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform surgeries. However, DOs also have a unique perspective on medicine that emphasizes the importance of preventive care and the body's ability to heal itself. They may use osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) to help diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems, but they also use traditional medical interventions when necessary.

In conclusion, the 'DO' behind a doctor's name stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, which is a type of medical degree that emphasizes the whole person and the body's ability to heal itself. DOs receive the same medical education and training as MDs, but they also receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). Both MDs and DOs are licensed physicians who are qualified to practice medicine, and they can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform surgeries. If you're considering a career in medicine, it's important to understand the different types of medical degrees that exist and the unique perspectives that each one offers.