WOW! Have to get in on this interesting exchange...
The push for the MDO designation is really nothing more than a consequence of our continued professional revolution. AT Still was without doubt a pioneer, but it is indisputable that some of his most fundamental views are at odds with contemporary medical practice. Indeed, almost no practicing DO would label surgical intervention and pharmaceuticals as unnecessary. Anyone who disagrees with the notion that DOs are continually redefining themselves needs to take a good look around. One of the reasons why we do not enjoy a uniform international standard of practice is that the meaning of "osteopath" differs from border to border. Simply stated, the american osteopathic movement has definitely become more mainstream. In order to enjoy full practice rights, insurance reimbursement, ACGME residency opportunites, and equality, we must necessarily produce DOs that are complete, competent physicians. This whole MDO topic reflects the state of our profession: Professionals and pre-medical students sometimes cannot understand why the perception of an osteopath as an alternative or substandard practioner still persists. If indeed we are similar to MD's in our knowledge base and scope of practice, then why not change the designation to symbolize our assimilation into the american medical mainstream? Personally, I dont give a crap about titles or letters. I am just grateful for the open-mindedness of this forum. Exchanges like these give everyone a change to learn a little more.
One last thing- I took an EXTREMELY small exception to the last post. Admittedly, I am one of those osteopathic medicine students who could not gain admission into an MD school. I spent three years pouring over refined secondary applications and failed interviews. Ironically, it was an MD friend of mine who educated me about osteopathy. I endeavored to learn a little more about the field, and the rest is history. The umbrella of osteopathic medicine is extremely large and has room for every type of student, traditional or not. I for one am absolutely grateful for my current circumstance and glad that my DO school did not discriminate against me because of my less than fundamental "osteopathic background." They welcomed me with open, manipulation capable arms. Perhaps they felt that practicing allied health providers would add yet another dimension of diversity to the incoming student class? Who knows... I am now am now extremely active in recruiting new applicants, talking to interviewees, and educating people about the intracies and sometimes "non-uniqueness" of our profession. "Finding another field," as JohnDO suggests, is not an option. Clearly, the issues facing our profession are much bigger than rejected pre-MD students matriculating at our institutions. Education is mediator of misunderstanding. It is both a personal and professional responsibility. Just ask the pre-professional advisors at the University of Florida. Some of them still recommend applying to DO schools along with foreign medical schools-- "as a backup." Food for thought. Love the exchange,
PUSHinEPI2, future D.O, or M.D.O.....
