NOOFAQs

A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who takes a whole-body approach to healthcare. DOs receive special training in the musculoskeletal system, allowing them to understand how all body systems are interconnected and how structural issues can impact overall health. They focus on preventing disease, not just treating illness, and encourage lifestyle habits that support long-term wellness.

DOs are among the fastest-growing healthcare professionals in the U.S. By 2016, over 100,000 DOs were expected to be in active medical practice, with 60% specializing in primary care fields such as family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics.

How Do MDs and DOs Compare?

Both Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and Medical Doctors (MDs) are fully licensed physicians who:

✔ Prescribe medication and perform surgery

✔ Diagnose and treat illnesses

✔ Complete medical school and post-graduate training

✔ Are licensed by the state and may specialize in various fields

✔ Serve in the military and participate in the same health plans

✔ DOs and MDs are the only two types of physicians fully licensed to practice medicine in all 50 states.

DOs complete four years of medical school, internships, and residencies, allowing them to prescribe medication and perform surgery. While chiropractors focus solely on the spine and back, DOs use Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) for the entire body, integrating hands-on techniques with traditional medicine.

Osteopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself. Founded in 1874 by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, it integrates modern medical practices with a focus on preventive care, wellness, and the musculoskeletal system.

DOs receive additional education in the musculoskeletal system, helping them understand how injuries or illnesses in one part of the body can affect others.

• Many DOs use Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) alongside traditional medicine, making them highly valued in sports medicine and physical rehabilitation. OMT includes hands-on techniques to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support recovery from injuries or medical conditions. DOs integrate OMT with medical, surgical, and rehabilitative treatments to enhance overall health and wellness.

The journey to becoming a physician is challenging, and the Northwest Oklahoma Osteopathic Foundation is here to provide guidance, resources, and opportunities every step of the way. From scholarships and mentoring to hands-on experiences, NWOOF is committed to helping future healthcare providers achieve their goals and make a difference in Northwest Oklahoma.

The cost of pursuing a medical career can be significant, but NWOOF is committed to reducing financial barriers:

• Scholarships for high school and pre-med students pursuing careers in healthcare.

• MCAT Prep Reimbursement to help cover the cost of preparing for this important exam.

• Residency Program Incentives to encourage new physicians to practice in Northwest Oklahoma.

These investments ensure that promising individuals can focus on their education and training without being held back by financial challenges.

Real-world learning is essential for preparing aspiring physicians for success. NOOF provides:

• Health Careers Camp for high school students to explore careers in healthcare through interactive programs.

• Clinical Rotation Opportunities for medical students to gain valuable experience in Northwest Oklahoma.

• Welcome Programs & Hospitality to support students during rotations in local hospitals and clinics.

These experiences not only build skills but also help connect future physicians with the communities they may one day serve.

Having the right guidance can make all the difference. NOOF connects future physicians with experienced mentors who provide:

• Career Guidance to navigate the path from high school to residency.

• Physician Shadowing Opportunities for firsthand experience in healthcare settings.

• One-on-One Mentoring to offer encouragement and practical advice throughout the journey.

By building connections with healthcare leaders, NWOOF helps individuals gain confidence and clarity about their future careers.

NOOF fosters collaboration by bringing together students, educators, and medical professionals through:

• Networking Events & Campus Visits to connect aspiring physicians with mentors and opportunities.

• Physician Programs & Recruitment Fairs that showcase opportunities to practice in Northwest Oklahoma.

• Community Engagement Initiatives that encourage future physicians to develop meaningful connections with local healthcare providers.

These efforts create a strong foundation for individuals to grow professionally while staying connected to their communities.