What does d o mean as a doctor Meaning and Definition
What does d o mean as a doctor
Pronunciation
/ˈdɑk.tər.əʊ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The abbreviation “D.O.” stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, a medical degree that focuses on a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing preventive medicine and the interconnectedness of the body’s systems.
Examples
- The hospital hired a D.O. to lead their new wellness program.
- She earned her D.O. degree from a renowned medical school.
Synonyms
- M.D.
- Physician
Antonyms
- Patient
- Non-medical professional
Additional Information
In the United States, D.O.s are fully qualified physicians who can prescribe medication, perform surgery, and provide medical care to patients. They are also trained in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), which involves manual therapy to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Osteopathic medicine emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management, and D.O.s often take a more holistic approach to patient care.
Etimology
The term “D.O.” originated in the late 19th century, when the American School of Osteopathy was founded by Andrew Taylor Still, a pioneer in the field of osteopathic medicine.
Usage Notes
D.O.s are often confused with M.D.s (Doctors of Medicine), but while both are medical degrees, they have distinct differences in philosophy and approach to patient care.
Cultural References
The TV show “Grey’s Anatomy” features a D.O. character, highlighting the differences between osteopathic and allopathic medicine.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Get a second opinion from a D.O.”
Related Words or Phrases
- Osteopathic medicine
- Allopathic medicine
Collocations
- osteopathic physician
- medical doctor
Frequency of Use
The term “D.O.” is commonly used in the medical field, especially in the United States, but may be less familiar to the general public.
Common Misspellings
- D.o.
- Do