The AOA is a member association representing more than 67,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs). The AOA serves as the primary certifying body for DOs, and is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical colleges and health care facilities.

The AOA's mission is to advance the philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine by promoting excellence in education, research, and the delivery of quality, cost-effective healthcare within a distinct, unified profession.

History and Structure

View the history of the AOA—how it was developed and how it has evolved since its founding in 1897. Also get information on the structure of the organization, including biographies on the current staff and leadership. Learn more about the AOA's history, leadership and organizational structure now.

Ethics and Policies

The AOA stands firmly behind osteopathic physicians’ ethical and professional responsibilities to patients and the medical profession. We offer an in-depth look at our ethical standards in our official Code of Ethics. Our position papers also outline the AOA’s stance on major health issues affecting all areas of society. View the Code of Ethics and position papers now.

AOA Annual Report and Osteopathic Medical Profession Statistics

Learn more about the AOA and get helpful data regarding the osteopathic profession through the AOA Annual Report and Osteopathic Medical Profession Report.

Employment Opportunities

Interested in working for the largest osteopathic medical association in the United States? Find out more about employment opportunities at the AOA, and work with our member physicians to help shape the osteopathic medical profession.

Affiliated Organizations

The AOA works closely with various affiliate organizations. These organizations advance osteopathic medicine at the state level, by medical specialty, through education at the colleges of osteopathic medicine and in many other ways. For more information about our affiliated organizations or to contact a group about a specific area of interest, visit our Local and Community Resources section.