Can DOs practice overseas?

[stat3113]

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I've read in a few places that DOs are not eligible to practice medicine overseas as their degrees are not recognized as medical degrees.

If this is accurate, then I am finally able to realize why a small minority of folks still say that Caribbean is preferable to DO. Just because most med students will not practice overseas does not mean this point is irrelevant. Its about having an internationally recognized credential. If the statement above is accurate (which I'm not saying it is, just seeking your input), then a DO is not considered a doctor in the rest of the world's 100+ countries, and that is something very worrisome for prospective DO students.

So the question is: is this correct? Please provide references, if possible.

 

[group_theory]

Please check out this link which list International Practice Rights available to American-trained DOs

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=107627

Also be aware that in some countries, it is extremely difficult for any outsiders (MD or DO) to gain practice rights

Also, while some countries may not grant permanent practice rights to DOs, DOs may practice as part of a humanitarian mission

Also, getting an MD from offshore does not necessarily mean that you won't run into problems with obtaining practice rights in other countries. Don't just assume that getting an MD will remove all barriers.

 

[DeLaughterDO]

FMcFP

 

[GreenShirt]

You can't just parachute out of a plane as an MD and set up practice anywhere you please. In the EU, I believe you actually have to complete the equivalent of their residency in order to practice.

If you're planning on practicing in another country, I recommend looking up their regulations regarding reciprocity.

Also, if you're interested in volunteering abroad, organizations like Doctors without Borders will accept DOs.

 

[Taty]

Yes, you can its just depends where...

 

[olliemctuffy]

People are currently working on contacting foreign governments and securing practice rights for DO's. One of the problems is that the training of a DO in Europe is very different from the US and so it is unclear to many people in the world that US trained DO's are fully licensed physicians. Dr. Carreiro from UNECOM is a leader in trying to expand international practice rights for DOs.