Definition

1. Noun:
   • A professional degree in osteopathic medicine: The Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) is a doctoral-level academic degree awarded upon completion of medical training in osteopathic medicine. Holders of this degree are licensed physicians with full practice rights, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care and the musculoskeletal system.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • After four years of medical school, she earned her Doctor of Osteopathy and began her residency.
  • You should consult a Doctor of Osteopathy for that chronic back pain; they specialize in manual therapies.
  • The title Doctor of Osteopathy signifies training in all aspects of medicine, with additional focus on osteopathic manipulative treatment.

Advanced Usage

• "DO" as a postnominal title: The abbreviation "DO" is used after a physician's name to indicate they hold a Doctor of Osteopathy degree, analogous to "MD" for a Doctor of Medicine.
  • The appointment is with Sarah Chen, DO.
• Distinction from MD: While both DOs and MDs are fully licensed physicians, the DO degree specifically represents training in osteopathic principles and practices (OPP).
  • The clinic has both Doctors of Osteopathy and medical doctors on staff.

Variants and Related Words

• Osteopathic Physician (DO) (n): A fully licensed physician who holds a Doctor of Osteopathy degree.
  • An osteopathic physician can prescribe medication and perform surgery.
• Osteopathic Medicine (n): The field of medicine practiced by Doctors of Osteopathy.
  • He studied osteopathic medicine.
• Osteopathy (n): A system of medicine focused on the belief that the body's musculoskeletal system is central to health.
  • The core philosophy of osteopathy influences the DO's approach.

Synonyms

• Osteopathic Doctor: A synonymous term for a physician with a DO degree.
• Osteopath: In some contexts, this is a general term for a practitioner of osteopathy, though in the US it typically refers to a licensed DO physician.

Related Phrases

• Hold a DO degree: To have earned and possess the Doctor of Osteopathy qualification.
  • She holds a DO degree from a prestigious college.
• Practice osteopathic medicine: To work as a physician utilizing the principles of osteopathy.
  • He is licensed to practice osteopathic medicine in all 50 states.

Noun

1. doctor's degree in osteopathy