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What's the difference?
M.D.
Allopathic Medicine
University of Iowa and 155 other schools
Applications through AMCAS
Tends to learn more about direct diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing competitive specialties
Receives science courses and clinical rotations
Accepted worldwide, possibly a better option for those considering international medicine
Medical students take the USMLE
Can pursue allopathic residencies only
Many programs offer MD/PhD Programs for medical researchers
D.O.
Osteopathic Medicine
Des Moines University and 41 other schools
Applications through AACOMAS
Tends to focus most on primary and preventative care with a "whole person" approach
Receives science course, clinical rotations and 200 hours of OMM (osteopathic manipulative medicine)
Accepted in 85 countries (and notably Doctors Without Borders)
Medical students take the COMLEX (and USMLE if they want to, school requirements vary)
Can pursue osteopathic or allopathic (if they take the USMLE) residency programs
Many programs offer
DO/MS or MPH degrees for deeper learning
via Doctor Mike
via Rachel Southard
In order to decide between MD and DO, I think it is very important to research the differences and similarities between these programs. While they are both great routes, I felt more aligned with osteopathic philosophy and chose this path because I believe it’ll help me become the physician I strive to be.
Jasmeet
DMU
D.O. 2023
I decided to apply MD, since all of the schools I am interested in only offer an MD program. Also, since I plan to pursue a surgical specialty after medical school, MD was the better choice.
Aravin
Biochemistry & Economics
UI 2021
I chose DO because of the focus on treating and considering all aspects of a patient's life - physically, socially, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. We are trained to partner with our patients to improve their health and wellness, not just to treat a symptom. A DO is a great fit for students who want to focus on forming a strong relationship with their patients and see their patients' health as a journey that they will continuously help guide them on. Because of this, DO's often choose specialties in primary care, though any specialty is certainly an option!
Kyra
DMU
D.O. 2023