Doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO) and doctors of medicine (MD) are two types of accredited doctor that can practice medical care in the United States. ... An MD is a traditional medicine degree, whereas a DO takes a holistic, mind-body-spirit approach to care.

Is DO or MD better?

Final thoughts. The allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) approaches to medicine are highly valuable for treating patients. Therefore, neither an MD nor DO is objectively better than the other.

Why choose a DO over an MD?

Osteopathic physicians, also trained in the use of drugs and surgery, believe strongly in the self-regulating, self-healing, and self-repairing ability of the body. DOs are more likely to promote the body's own ability to heal itself through means as safe, non-intrusive and with a few side effects as possible.