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Preserving the distinctiveness of osteopathic medical practice and terminology in the U.S. is essential to helping patients make informed decisions about their healthcare
In the U.S., there are only two types of fully trained and licensed physicians: allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO, sometimes referred to as “osteopaths”). Both undergo equivalently rigorous medical schooling and residency training, qualifying them for unlimited medical licensure in every state and specialty.
DOs specifically bring a unique philosophy to healthcare, combining medical expertise with a whole-person approach centered on caring for the body, mind and spirit. DOs are trained to promote the body’s natural tendency toward health and self-healing and may use their hands to diagnose and treat ailments (a technique called osteopathic manipulative treatment, or OMT), in addition to other interventions such as medication or surgery. Osteopathic medicine is highly regulated in the U.S., and patients are protected by state medical boards that oversee practitioner licensure, discipline and ethical standards.
However, outside of the U.S., the term “osteopath” typically refers to practitioners of “manual osteopathy,” who do not attend medical school. While some countries do regulate this practice, it remains largely unregulated in many parts of the world, leading to the rise of substandard schools that promise quick degrees.
Recently, individuals affiliated with substandard non-medical schools have begun entering the U.S. and claiming to practice “osteopathy” by exploiting legal loopholes. Because they lack medical licensure (and most are unlicensed in any healthcare profession), they are illegally practicing medicine. However, due to gaps in truth in advertising laws and meaningful enforcement mechanisms, these individuals have been able to attract patients by using misleading advertising to capitalize on the public’s trust in the osteopathic profession. This deception poses a significant safety risk to patients who may have no legal recourse if they are harmed.
To protect patient safety and ensure transparency in healthcare, the AOA has developed resources to help the public and policymakers take action. Use the below resources to share information about this issue and to take action against the unauthorized practice of osteopathic medicine.