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MD vs DO: what is the difference?
MDs and DOs are both physicians with similar degrees, and BLS says both treat patients with drugs and surgery. DOs place additional emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and whole-person care, and are most likely to be primary care physicians.
Facts only, from 1 cited source, checked October 23, 2026. This page does not recommend either option.
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MD vs DO side by side
| Doctor of Medicine | Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree | Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) | Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Training emphasis | Medical school, then residency | Same path, with added emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, prevention, and holistic care | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Medical school | 4 years after a bachelor's degree | 4 years after a bachelor's degree | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Internship and residency | 3 to 9 years, by specialty | 3 to 9 years, by specialty | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Licensure | Standardized national exams | Standardized national exams | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Median pay, 2025 (physicians and surgeons) | $275,930 a year (BLS reports one figure for both) | $275,930 a year (BLS reports one figure for both) | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
| Job outlook, 2025-35 | 4% (as fast as average), both degrees | 4% (as fast as average), both degrees | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physicians and Surgeons |
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Questions
What is the difference between MD and DO?
MDs and DOs are both physicians with similar degrees, and BLS says both treat patients with drugs and surgery. DOs place additional emphasis on the musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and whole-person care, and are most likely to be primary care physicians.
Is a DO a real doctor?
Yes. BLS describes M.D.s and D.O.s as the two types of physicians, with similar degrees, and both are licensed through standardized national exams.