New York Times

 

Dear Editor:

 

“Expecting a Surge in US Medical Schools” not only fails to recognize the five osteopathic medical schools that have opened since 2006, but also completely neglects the contribution of more than 67,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) to the physician workforce.

 

Currently, there are 25 colleges of osteopathic medicine offering instruction in 31 locations. Many are located in medically underserved regions, including Appalachia and Harlem, N.Y.

 

Admission to colleges of osteopathic medicine is highly competitive. Aside from looking at MCAT scores and GPAs, DO schools look for well-rounded students with an aptitude for applying the osteopathic philosophy of prevention and treating the whole person. Like their MD counterparts, DOs are fully licensed to prescribe medicine and practice in all primary care and specialty areas.

 

With more than 100,000 osteopathic physicians projected to be in practice by the year 2020, DOs are positioned to help preserve access to health care for patients now and in the future.

 

Sincerely,

Larry A. Wickless, DO
President
American Osteopathic Association