The crisis in osteopathic medicine.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health Policy
• Osteopathic Medicine

Background:

• The osteopathic profession transformed from osteopathy (manipulative therapy) to osteopathic medicine (full-service healthcare) over 30 years.
• This evolution led to increased acceptance but also new challenges, including a shift away from primary care.
• Osteopathic graduates are increasingly pursuing residency training in allopathic (M.D.) programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the transformation of the osteopathic profession and its impact on primary care.
• To advocate for a return to the core mission of osteopathic medicine.
• To propose solutions for integrating osteopathic medicine into national primary care strategies.

Main Methods:

• The study is a critical analysis of the osteopathic profession's evolution and current challenges.
• It reviews the historical trajectory and current trends in osteopathic medical education and practice.
• The authors present a position advocating for specific policy and practice changes.

Main Results:

• Osteopathic medicine's primary care focus is diminishing due to an emphasis on specialty training.
• A growing number of Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) graduates are entering Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) residency programs.
• The profession faces an identity crisis and potential loss of its unique contribution to primary care.

Conclusions:

• Osteopathic medicine should reaffirm its commitment to primary care.
• Specialty training should be re-evaluated or restricted to primary care completers.
• Collaboration between osteopathic and allopathic medicine is crucial for developing a national primary care policy.