Integrating Disciplines: Uniting Allopathic and Osteopathic Medicine

Publication Date

2025

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

Jack C. Massey College of Business

Department

Management

Student Level

Graduate

SPARK Category

Research

Faculty Advisor

Dr. David Wyant

SPARK Session

Independent Presentation

Presentation Type

Poster

Summary

Allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medicine represent two distinct but convergent pathways in healthcare. Historically, each maintained separate accreditation systems for their residency programs, leading to variations in training standards and limited collaboration. The year 2020 marked the transition to a unified graduate medical education system which has led to the integration of the two disciplines and collaboration between allopathic and osteopathic physicians.

Allopathic education has roots in evidence based medicine and interventions, advanced diagnostics, and specialized interventions. In contrast, osteopathic education emphasizes a holistic philosophy that acknowledges the interdependence of the body system and the body’s ability to heal itself. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a technique that is taught in DO schools that focuses on using a hands-on therapy to treat musculoskeletal conditions and other conditions.

Through a comprehensive literature review and examination of recent changes in medical training, this presentation explores how the unified graduate accreditation system facilitates interdisciplinary dialogue and fosters a more inclusive learning environment. By comparing curriculums, medical training, philosophical ideas, and undergraduate medical accreditation, the analysis highlights both the similarities and differences that shape how MDs and DOs approach patient care.

The unified system encourages shared residency experiences, promoting professional development and reducing perceived gaps between allopathic and osteopathic practitioners. As MD and DO students train side by side, they gain a deeper appreciation for each other’s strengths, leading to more comprehensive and patient-focused treatments.With the integration of graduate medical education, this presentation examines and argues that integration of Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) will help advance the field of medicine and create a collaborative atmosphere between the two disciplines.

In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, collaborative efforts between MDs and DOs have the potential to advance integrative care models, streamline patient management, and address diverse patient populations more effectively. Combined efforts enhance knowledge sharing, optimize resources, and improve effectiveness. This presentation argues that the integration between these two pathways will foster innovation and ensure that patients benefit from a broad range of treatment options. By understanding their shared origins and perspectives, educators, policymakers, and future medical professionals can build an environment that enriches patient care and strengthens the healthcare system.

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