Osteopathic physicians have a more personal and holistic approach to patient care than allopathic physicians (M.D.s), according to a study.

Osteopathic physicians were more likely to discuss social, family and emotional issues with patients; were more likely to use patients’ first names; and were more likely to explain etiologic factors to patients, even though the two physician groups had similar appointment lengths.

Further studies are needed to determine whether the more personal approach used by osteopathic physicians is associated with better patient care.

It’s likely that many of you know I am an osteopathic physician. For those who may not know what osteopathic medicine is I've included a link that thoroughly discusses it.

Throughout the years the comments I continuously receive from patients is that D.O.s generally seem to be more interested and caring in terms of the profession as a whole. I really don't believe that I receive that feedback because they know I am a D.O. However, on the other hand, many patients select D.O.s because they are interested in finding physicians who practice with an orientation on natural medicine.

In this area they will be sadly disappointed as nearly all D.O.s are still rooted in the traditional paradigm. While I think above study is all well and good, and I am very grateful for my osteopathic training, osteopathic medicine still falls far short of addressing the underlying cause of disease and for the most part is still rooted in the surgical and drug solution mode. Fortunately though, D.O.s are far more likely to be open to adopting the necessary changes that will be required to fully serve their patients.

Journal of the American Osteopathic Association July, 2003;103(7):313-8

An Overview of Osteopathic Medicine

The Paradox Of Osteopathy