For those pursuing a career in medicine, the choice between becoming a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) often sparks much deliberation. While both MDs and DOs are fully licensed to practice medicine, their training and approach to healthcare differ. Osteopathic physicians, or DOs, emphasize a holistic approach to medicine, focusing on the body’s musculoskeletal system and incorporating osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) into their practice. Despite the many advantages of osteopathic medical education, there are certain downsides of DO degrees that aspiring medical students should consider before embarking on their journey. Understanding the pros and cons of both medical degrees is essential for making an informed decision. Read more about DOs becoming surgeons here.
Differences Between DO and MD: A Quick Overview
DOs and MDs share the same fundamental goal: to diagnose and treat patients effectively. However, the paths to earning these medical degrees differ in several key aspects. MD programs focus on allopathic medicine, which is often referred to as traditional or conventional medicine. This approach to medicine emphasizes diagnosis and treatment using pharmaceuticals, surgeries, and other established techniques.
In contrast, osteopathic medical schools offer training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, teaching students to use their hands to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Osteopathic physicians also adopt a holistic approach to healthcare, treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. While these principles are valuable, they may present specific challenges when compared to the traditional MD degree.
Limited Acceptance into Residency Programs
One significant disadvantage of pursuing a DO degree is the “perceived” disparity in residency program opportunities. Although DOs and MDs are qualified physicians, many competitive residency programs, especially in specialties like dermatology, orthopedic surgery, and academic medicine, tend to favor MD applicants. The path to earning an MD often provides more straightforward access to these highly sought-after specialties. For instance, MD matriculants typically have higher match rates in prestigious residency programs compared to their DO counterparts.
Despite the unification of MD and DO residency programs under a single accreditation system, biases still exist. Some program directors may prefer applicants from traditional MD medical schools due to the historical dominance of allopathic medicine. As a result, osteopathic medical students may face challenges when competing for residencies in certain medical specialties.
Perceived Inferiority in Academic Circles
Another downside of being a DO is the lingering perception that osteopathic medical education is less rigorous than its allopathic counterpart. While this view is not universally held, it can affect opportunities in academic medicine and research. For example, MD students often have greater access to research opportunities and academic mentorship during their training. This disparity stems from the emphasis that MD schools place on academic medicine and clinical research, areas where DO programs may lag.
Additionally, some aspiring physicians who aim to teach or work in prestigious medical colleges may find that the MD title carries more weight. As such, medical students considering a career in academic medicine should weigh the pros and cons of attending an osteopathic versus an allopathic medical school.
Stigma and Misunderstanding
Despite advancements in osteopathic medical education, there remains a stigma associated with the DO degree in certain medical and patient circles. Many people, including some in the medical community, are unaware of the rigorous training in osteopathic manipulative treatment that DOs undergo. Misunderstandings about what osteopathic physicians do may lead patients or colleagues to favor MDs over DOs, especially in conventional medicine settings.
This stigma can extend to medical students and professionals. For instance, prospective DOs may feel they need to prove their competency more than their MD counterparts. Similarly, medical students pursuing a DO degree may encounter skepticism from peers or mentors who are more familiar with traditional MD, medical doctor, programs.
Specialty Restrictions
DOs tend to be overrepresented in primary care fields such as family medicine, internal medicine, and emergency medicine. While this focus aligns with the osteopathic approach to healthcare, it can limit opportunities for DOs in other medical specialties. Those aiming for subspecialties like sports medicine, academic medicine, or highly procedural fields may find that MD programs provide a more advantageous path.
Training in osteopathic manipulative treatment is undoubtedly beneficial for treating the whole patient and addressing musculoskeletal issues. However, it may not carry the same weight in specialties emphasizing technical procedures or cutting-edge research. Consequently, medical students interested in these fields should carefully consider the potential disadvantages of a DO degree versus an MD degree.
Licensing and Certification Hurdles
Although DOs and MDs are fully licensed to practice medicine, some licensing exams and certification processes may present additional challenges for osteopathic physicians. For instance, DOs take the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX), whereas MD students take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). While DOs can also choose to take the USMLE to enhance their residency applications, this dual examination requirement can create an additional burden.
Moreover, international recognition of the DO degree is limited compared to the MD title. For those considering practicing medicine abroad, the MD degree may offer greater flexibility and acceptance in countries where osteopathic medicine is less established.
Making an Informed Decision
When deciding between a DO and an MD program, prospective medical students should consider their long-term career goals and the pros and cons of each medical degree. The holistic approach and training in osteopathic manipulative medicine offered by DO programs may appeal to those passionate about preventative medicine, primary care, or treating the whole patient. However, the potential disadvantages, such as limited residency opportunities and lingering biases, should not be overlooked.
For students aspiring to pursue competitive specialties, academic medicine, or international practice, the traditional MD path may be more advantageous. Those accepted into an MD program typically benefit from broader career opportunities and fewer professional barriers. Conversely, students who value the principles of osteopathic medicine and are committed to fields like family medicine or internal medicine may find a DO degree to be a fulfilling choice.
Conclusion
Choosing between a DO and an MD program is a pivotal decision for anyone pursuing a career in medicine. Both paths offer the opportunity to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medicine, and make a meaningful impact in healthcare. However, understanding the potential downsides of a DO degree—such as limited residency opportunities, stigma, and specialty restrictions—is crucial for making an informed decision.
Ultimately, the choice between osteopathic and allopathic medicine depends on individual goals, values, and aspirations. Whether one becomes a DO or an MD, the commitment to improving patient care and advancing the field of medicine remains at the core of both paths. By weighing the pros and cons and considering personal interests, future physicians can choose the medical degree that best aligns with their vision of practicing medicine.