How to Become a Doctor of Osteopathy

Osteopathy is getting increased recognition in the medical field. The unique holisitic approach has made this hands-on approach to pain management more popular with Western cultures. A Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) will become familiar with general medical education as part of their training. To enter a career in osteopathy, understand that earning a D.O. degree can be a lengthy and moderately expensive endeavor. However, its rewards are unique, and caring for patients can be extremely satisfying for many. Follow these steps to learn how to become a D.O.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Take Steps to Prepare for Training

1. Complete your bachelor's degree in a science major like biology, physics, general chemistry or organic chemistry.
2. Volunteer in a health care setting before considering a career in this field.
3. Study for and take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).
4. Seek out funding sources to help with program costs. Costs for a typical 4-year program will range from moderate to expensive.
5. Understand that there are additional requirements after graduation. Osteopaths complete an approved 12-month internship where they're involved in hospital rotations. Choosing to complete a specialty will require 2 to 6 years of additional training.

Evaluate Osteopathic Programs

6. Expect to spend your first 2 years in osteopathic medical school completing laboratory exercises and listening to lectures and the last 2 years performing clinical work to become a D.O.
7. Evaluate the 19 different osteopathic medical schools in the United States. Find a list of schools and a great deal of useful information at the "Association of American Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine" (AACOM) Web site (see Resources below).
8. Consider the benefits and limitations of hospital-affiliated schools. Some schools that aren't affiliated with particular hospitals will allow students to travel and work apart from their enrolled university during the third and fourth years. Schools with hospital placements often require students to work in particular teaching hospitals associated with the school.
9. Ask whether there is a residency restriction when speaking to program coordinators. You may be unable to apply if you haven't met residency requirements. Inquiring ahead of time about extra out-of-state fees is advised for all applicants.
10. Apply early. Many schools open application periods for fall entry in May.
11. Create a back-up plan in the event that you aren't accepted to your first choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Set a realistic time frame to complete your education and subsequent training.
• Shadow a D.O. to experience what may be expected of you when you become one.
• Understand that completing an osteopathic specialty after graduating will provide more opportunities for increased income.
• Osteopathy isn't intended to treat potentially life-threatening illness or injury. Refer patients to emergency rooms if they are experiencing chest pain, sudden severe headache or loss of speech.