The medical field is filled with various abbreviations and titles that can be confusing for those outside of the industry. Two of the most common titles that people often get confused with are DO and MD. Both DO and MD are medical degrees that allow individuals to practice medicine, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will explore what DO means in medical terms and how it differs from MD.
What is a DO?
A DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is a medical degree that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of a disease. DOs are trained to consider the patient's lifestyle, environment, and overall well-being when diagnosing and treating illnesses. This approach is often referred to as a holistic approach to medicine.
DOs are trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which is a system of manual therapies that aim to restore balance and function to the body's musculoskeletal and nervous systems. OMT is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including back pain, headaches, and sports injuries.
What is the Difference Between DO and MD?
The main difference between a DO and an MD is the approach to medicine. MDs, or Doctors of Medicine, tend to focus more on the biological and chemical aspects of medicine, while DOs take a more holistic approach. However, both DOs and MDs are qualified to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and diagnose illnesses.
Another difference between the two is the type of medical school they attend. MDs typically attend traditional medical schools that focus on the biological sciences, while DOs attend osteopathic medical schools that focus on the osteopathic approach to medicine.
| Degree | Focus | Training |
|---|---|---|
| MD | Biological and chemical aspects of medicine | Traditional medical schools |
| DO | Holistic approach to medicine, including osteopathic manipulative treatment | Osteopathic medical schools |
Key Points
- A DO, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, is a medical degree that focuses on treating the whole person.
- DOs are trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a system of manual therapies.
- The main difference between a DO and an MD is the approach to medicine.
- DOs and MDs are both qualified to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and diagnose illnesses.
- The type of medical school attended differs between DOs and MDs.
Can DOs and MDs Prescribe Medication?
Yes, both DOs and MDs are qualified to prescribe medication. The ability to prescribe medication is not limited to one type of medical degree. Both DOs and MDs have the necessary training and education to prescribe medication safely and effectively.
Can DOs Perform Surgery?
Yes, DOs can perform surgery. Like MDs, DOs are qualified to perform surgical procedures. However, the type of surgery and the complexity of the procedure may vary depending on the individual's training and experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both DOs and MDs are medical degrees that allow individuals to practice medicine, there are some key differences between the two. DOs take a more holistic approach to medicine, focusing on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of a disease. Understanding the differences between DO and MD can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.
What does DO stand for in medical terms?
+DO stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.
What is the main difference between a DO and an MD?
+The main difference between a DO and an MD is the approach to medicine. DOs take a more holistic approach, while MDs focus on the biological and chemical aspects of medicine.
Can DOs prescribe medication?
+Yes, DOs are qualified to prescribe medication.
Can DOs perform surgery?
+Yes, DOs can perform surgery.
What type of medical school do DOs attend?
+DOs attend osteopathic medical schools.