Can you give an overview of the UK system or offer a good source on it? I've looked into it a bit but would like more info. I had a prof who use to practice there for a short time and said it was a frustrating system as well because of shortages of equipment etc...
Ya, I considered it very seriously. I guess I look at manipulation as another tool to help my patients. I shadowed a DO (one of a few in MT so he was very busy!) who I really admire and think I'll take a lot of him and his technique with me even in allopathic school. I've read that DO's prescribe less narcotics to their patients and have a more holistic approach to medicine.
When it came down to applying, with the mess of AMCAS, I didn't have the time nor money to fill out more applications and my finances are seriously hurting, so I didn't apply. My top schools were also allopathic with WHICHI, WWAMI, and a couple of privates. I've shadowed MD's who use massage/manipulation-like techniques in their practice as well and try to promote the health of the whole individual; so I feel like even without going through the training, I can become the physician I want to be. I also think that there are electives in medical school for manipulation...
You should consider both and shadow/talk with DOs and MDs to see where you feel you would fit the best. I have friends in both allo and osteo schools who are loving where they are at.
Good luck to you! 🙂