Moving forward
One of the biggest places the physician shortage is problematic is in rural America. The federal government estimates that by 2025, there will be a physician shortage of 25,000 primary care doctors in these areas. This is another way in which the growing osteopathic field is having an impact.
“We have a number of schools in underserved areas, such as Oklahoma and on indigenous lands,” says Dr. Giaimo. “There is a concerted effort to reach these communities, and we’re getting some recognition for those efforts, too.”
Dr. Gheewala also sees a greater emphasis on primary care physicians today, something that he believes has led more people to explore becoming or seeing a DO instead of an MD.
A full 57% of DOs focus on primary care, such as family practice, pediatrics, and internal medicine, with the others in specialized care. If those focused on primary care can fill some of the physician shortages, Dr. Gheewala says, it can help keep patients out of hospitals for their first line of care, reducing health care costs.
The tides are turning in the medical profession, as well, when it comes to respecting the osteopathy field. Students who graduate from osteopathic programs also have a high acceptance rate into residencies, which Dr. Giaimo credits to several factors.
He also doesn’t discount the fact that DOs are talking more about their practice approaches these days. “It hits the right note for modern medicine, and it’s also what the consumer is looking for today,” he adds.
A version of this article first appeared on Medscape.com.