Collaborative Natural Health
What's the difference between a family doctor and a collaborative natural health practitioner? Well, first off, a family physician is licensed to practice medicine by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. That's not to say that collaborative natural health practitioners don't practice medicine and should be trusted. But what about those who specialize in complementary and alternative health care? If you're not sure, check out the website of the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians for more information.
American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
Dr. Paige Gutheil, D.O. is an osteopathic family physician and founder of Signature Primary Care and Wellness. She has earned numerous honors, including Young Physician of the Year. In addition, she has received the Outstanding Recent Graduate Award from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has also served in leadership roles, including serving as President of the Columbus Osteopathic Association, Board of Governors of the Ohio ACOFP, and OU-HCOM's Society of Alumni and Friends.
A DO has extensive training in holistic medicine. They understand that people have different physical, psychological, and social needs. They focus on prevention, not just treatment. While they have completed medical school, they also receive 200 hours of additional training in osteopathy and manual medicine (OMM), an integrative approach to medicine. They practice this philosophy in all types of environments and specialty areas. They are licensed to practice in all 50 states.
To practice osteopathy, a physician must have a degree in osteopathic medicine or designate their osteopathic school of training. Membership in a professional society is regulated by the American Osteopathic Association's rules. In addition, each physician must adhere to a Code of Ethics, which guides its members in their practice. The Code of Ethics outlines the ethical standards that a physician should follow.
In addition to training in osteopathy, an osteopathic physician must educate themselves about the appropriateness of using alternative treatments for different conditions. Education can come from journal articles, continuing medical education programs, and interactions with pharmaceutical representatives. A physician must also seek information about collaborative natural health care practices from colleagues and patients. The osteopathic physician should attend meetings with representatives of pharmaceutical companies and other natural health organizations.
Students can also participate in various activities at VCOM, including joining the Atlas Club. The Atlas Club is the oldest national osteopathic fraternity. The WVSOM Chapter was first organized in 1978, and is dedicated to improving osteopathic education. Members can participate in the Distinguished Lecturer Program and Golden Key Awards, and attend practical review sessions and tutoring. The student chapter of the ACOEP also offers educational opportunities for students.
AOA board certification is important for both physicians and patients. It validates physicians' practice and helps the AOA fulfill its mission. It also gives AOA the chance to extend its services to non-DO physicians. In addition, MDs throughout the country are engaging in osteopathic medicine in their training and clinical practice. It's only fair that they have the opportunity to gain the certification that recognizes their expertise.
Hollis King, D.O. is a board-certified osteopathic physician who believes in a holistic approach to health care. King is an expert in osteopathic manipulative treatment, which increases mobility, and is experienced in treating patients of all ages. Hollis King's mission is to help patients adopt healthy lifestyles as part of their ongoing care. His research has been published in medical journals.
In addition to treating patients holistically, osteopathic medicine emphasizes the body's inherent ability to heal itself. It uses osteopathic manipulative medicine to support the body's natural healing process. Osteopathic DOs also conduct basic and clinical research to advance the field of medicine. The Osteopathic Research Center coordinates multi-center clinical research studies. The osteopathic community has become a leading force in the advancement of natural health care.
Osteopathic medicine is a distinct pathway to medical practice in the United States. It emphasizes patient-centered care and a holistic approach to health. In addition, nearly half of osteopathic medical school graduates plan to practice in rural or underserved areas. As a result, this profession is rapidly expanding. Its growing reputation is a valuable asset in our society. If you are considering an osteopathic medical career, consider Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine as a viable option.
The Student Osteopathic Medical Association is a student-governed organization of the American Osteopathic Association. Membership in SOMA allows student physicians to network with doctors from other fields and improve healthcare. It hosts national and regional conferences and engages in service projects for the greater good. The American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP) recognizes student organizations on campus and encourages their members to participate.
In 2010, the FMSO boards of medicine reached an agreement on a collective goal: a goal to increase the percentage of students choosing family medicine as a primary care specialty. WEDTT, as it is commonly referred to, set a goal of increasing this number from 12% to 25 percent by 2030. Though ambitious, the collective aim is attainable and will align current efforts. In addition, it allows for collaboration in the future.