Evaluating Community Awareness of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine and New Educational Programs in Fresno County,...

Introduction  Osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) is a patient-centered, evidence-based approach emphasizing the body's ability to self-heal and the interrelationship between structure and function. Despite its established history and growing recognition, public awareness of OMM and the role of Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) remains limited, particularly in underserved regions such as Fresno County, California. With the recent establishment of California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine (CHSU-COM) in Clovis, understanding local awareness and perceptions of osteopathic medicine is increasingly important. Methods A cross-sectional survey consisting of 10 Likert-scale questions was distributed in person through a QR code at five public and educational locations throughout Fresno County. Eligible participants were adults (18+) residing in Fresno County with current or past medical conditions requiring treatment. Individuals affiliated with CHSU-COM were excluded from the survey. After data collection, 182 valid responses were analyzed using Google Forms to assess knowledge, perception, and openness toward osteopathic medicine and the presence of a local osteopathic medical school. Results Survey results revealed a substantial gap in awareness of osteopathic medicine, with 72% of respondents reporting being unaware of its distinction from allopathic medicine. However, over 83% expressed openness to receiving osteopathic care, and 96% agreed that treating the whole person is important. Additionally, 91% believed an osteopathic medical school would positively impact the region, yet 56% were unaware of CHSU-COM's existence. While respondents supported the holistic principles of osteopathy, nearly half (45%) remained neutral about the similarity of DO and MD training, suggesting uncertainty about osteopathic education. Discussion Our findings highlight a lack of awareness and a strong receptivity to osteopathic principles among Fresno County residents. Despite limited OMM and DO training knowledge, community members demonstrated interest in osteopathic care and acknowledged the potential value of a local osteopathic medical school. This discrepancy indicates an opportunity for targeted educational campaigns and community outreach to bridge the knowledge gap and integrate osteopathic care into regional healthcare systems. Conclusion There is a significant opportunity to enhance awareness and utilization of osteopathic medicine in Fresno County. While current awareness remains low, the community's openness to holistic care and CHSU-COM is promising for future engagement. Strategic education and outreach programs are essential to expanding recognition of osteopathy and addressing healthcare disparities in underserved regions such as California's Central Valley.