If you're like most people, you've been going to a doctor  since you were born, and perhaps were not aware whether  you were seeing a DO. (osteopathic physician) or an M.D.  (allopathic physician). You may not even be aware that these are the only two types of complete physicians in the United States. The fact is, both DO's and MD's are complete physicians. They are both licensed by state and specialty boards to perform surgery  and prescribe medication. Is there any difference between these  two types of physicians? Yes. And no. DO's and M.D's are a lot alike: DO's bring something extra to medicine,Osteopathic schools emphasize training students to be primary care physicians. DO's practice a "whole person" approach to medicine. Instead of just treating specific symptoms or illnesses,they regard your body as an integrated whole.   Osteopathic physicians focus on preventive healthcare. DO's receive extra training in the musculoskeletal system - your body's interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones that make up two-thirds of its body mass. This training provides osteopathic physicians with a better understanding of the ways that an injury or illness in one part of your body can affect another. It gives DO's a therapeutic and diagnostic advantage over those who do not receive additional specialized training. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is incorporated in the training and practice of osteopathic physicians.   OMT allows physicians to use their hands to diagnose injury and illness and to encourage your body's natural tendency toward good health. By combining all other medical procedures with OMT, DO's offer their patients the most comprehensive care available in medicine today. 100 Years of Unique Care.