[NYT] What's a DO?

[Mr.Smile12]

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https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/briefing/what-is-a-do.html?unlocked_article_code=1.WE8.BZ93.MCIkxQJ1Xswv&smid=nytcore-android-share

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/well/osteopath-doctor-health.html?unlocked_article_code=1.WE8.JAev.i_e6Kmmb1sWP&smid=url-share

 

[notEinstein]

Bummer that this has to be explained. I saw a question on Reddit, along the lines of "I got assigned a DO - should I ask for an MD?"

 

[TwoDogMed]

They say NPs can be just as good in primary care. I am sure folks don't really care as long as the providers are available, empathetic and caring. Primary care is not rocket science in medicine.

 

[Goro]

NPs are good for shots and sniffles. Anything more complicated, and they're in over their heads.

I know from hard experience.

 

[Anthodite]

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/briefing/what-is-a-do.html?unlocked_article_code=1.WE8.BZ93.MCIkxQJ1Xswv&smid=nytcore-android-share

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/well/osteopath-doctor-health.html?unlocked_article_code=1.WE8.JAev.i_e6Kmmb1sWP&smid=url-share

As someone who’s chronically-ill, I don’t actually pay attention to the physicians credentials unless it’s for something specific like a form or their background on a rare disorder.

The ONLY time I had to switch my DO to an MD was on an outdated medical accommodation form for a board exam. They amended that clause that diagnosis can only be given by an MD I think because I gave them a headache.

I didn’t realize before going premed the actual differences were slim to none, I just thought it was “oh just a different kinda doctor” because the awareness about DOs roles is awful.

NPs&PAs are extremely caring and often get me the help I need when no other provider can see me. The ones in my gastro clinic all collaborate with the physicians which I think makes the biggest difference in quality of care.

 

[Angus Avagadro]

I think the article was fair. I would only add that DOs might present a more comprehensive lifestyle management approach. No offense to my MD colleagues, but I think DO schools place more emphasis on lifestyle than MD schools. At least my wife's uni didnt. As far as how I answered " DO, what's that?" When my patient for open heart surgery asks me that at 0600 as a day of admission surgery, I would reply Physicians come in 2 flavors. MDs and DOs. Both have nearly the same training and board exams, except DOs have some additional training in musculoskeletal medicine. Sort of like the American league and National League in baseball. Some minor differences, but it's still baseball. That usually sufficed.