President's Blog

I actually feel that it is considerably hypocritical for the AOA to consistently expect the ACGME to cater to their needs when the osteopathic powers exhibit no reciprocity to acknowledge ACGME training.  I can still recall as a medical student when I was accepted for a highly prestigious and highly coveted program at the National Institute of Health and my school would not credit me for the rotation as it was not an osteopathic institution.  The same concept applies for ACGME trained DOs who have not done a rotating internship seeking licensure at those 5 states.  For once, I would like to see the AOA focus on improving physician quality of life. 

Moving toward a universal accreditation process is the way to go if you do not believe there is a difference between osteopathic and allopathic medicine. However, there is a difference and the osteopathic postdoctoral training standards reflect that difference. Osteopathic principles and practices as well as osteopathic manipulative treatment are embedded throughout osteopathic postdoctoral training. A universal accreditation process would eliminate the continued growth of many osteopathic physicians in osteopathic principles and practices.

That does not mean that the AOA and ACGME accreditation processes cannot learn from each other.  They can and, in fact, the Council on Osteopathic Postdoctoral Training has extended an offer for greater interaction between AOA and ACGME accreditation authorities.

AOA postdoctoral training is recognized by governmental and private agencies throughout the United States including the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Veteran Affairs, the Joint Commission; and licensing bodies.  In addition, hospitals around the country recognize osteopathic training and certification as meeting their credentials and privileging requirements. So why the sudden change in ACGME when in fact, DO residents have received acceptance of their AOA training toward ACGME training and fellowship requirements for years?

As the professional organization of the osteopathic family, we will continue to protect and advocate for your rights to practice osteopathic medicine.

Has there been any work towards trying to create a unified residency review body as opposed to the silly "separate but equal" process that exists now?