How to become an osteopathic physician

Is becoming an osteopathic physician right for me?

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Overview
What do osteopathic physicians do?

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How to become an Osteopathic Physician

Becoming an osteopathic physician involves a structured path of education, training, and licensing. Here are the general steps to pursue this career:

  • Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Start by completing a bachelor’s degree, typically with a focus in a science-related field such as biology or chemistry. Most programs require coursework in biology, physics, chemistry, and English.
  • Take the MCAT: The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required for admission to osteopathic medical schools. Strong scores improve your chances of acceptance.
  • Attend an Accredited College of Osteopathic Medicine: Complete a four-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program. The first two years focus on classroom and lab instruction; the final two years involve clinical rotations in various medical settings.
  • Complete a Residency Program: After earning a DO degree, complete a residency in your chosen specialty, which typically lasts three to seven years depending on the field.
  • Pass Licensing Exams: You must pass the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA) to practice. Some physicians may also take the USMLE to broaden their career options.
  • Obtain Board Certification (Optional): While not required, becoming board-certified in a specialty demonstrates expertise and can enhance job prospects.
  • Maintain Licensure and Continue Education: Osteopathic physicians must meet continuing education requirements and maintain licensure throughout their careers.

Fellowships
Osteopathic physicians have access to many of the same fellowship opportunities as allopathic physicians (MDs), especially since the graduate medical education system has been unified. After completing a residency, DOs can pursue fellowships to gain advanced training in a subspecialty. Here are some common fellowship options for osteopathic physicians:

  • Cardiology Fellowship: Provides specialized training in diagnosing and treating heart conditions.
  • Gastroenterology Fellowship: Focuses on diseases of the digestive system, including the stomach, liver, and intestines.
  • Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship: Combines training in lung diseases and intensive care medicine.
  • Hematology/Oncology Fellowship: Prepares physicians to treat cancers and blood disorders.
  • Endocrinology Fellowship: Focuses on hormone-related conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.
  • Infectious Disease Fellowship: Provides expertise in diagnosing and managing complex infections.
  • Nephrology Fellowship: Specializes in kidney function and diseases, including dialysis and transplantation.
  • Rheumatology Fellowship: Involves the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Pain Medicine Fellowship: Offers advanced training in managing chronic pain through various methods.
  • Sports Medicine Fellowship: Allows DOs to work with athletes and treat sports-related injuries.

Board Certification
Osteopathic physicians can become board certified through the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), which offers certification in a wide range of specialties. To qualify, a DO must typically complete an AOA-approved residency program, gain relevant clinical experience, and pass a specialty board examination. Certification through the AOA demonstrates a physician’s commitment to the principles of osteopathic medicine and continued professional development. Maintenance of certification requires ongoing continuing medical education and periodic re-examination, depending on the specialty.

Alternatively, DOs who complete an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited residency program can pursue board certification through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). This pathway aligns with the certification process used by MDs and is widely recognized across all areas of medicine. Like AOA certification, it requires passing comprehensive exams and maintaining certification through continued education and periodic assessments. Many DOs choose this route, especially in highly competitive or subspecialized fields.