Which is a better classification to enter into for Pediatrics MD or DO? ?

Question

I am in the process of applying to medical school. Who (if either) has the advantage MD or DO when it comes to pediatrics? I love children and medicine, so the branch of medicine is not the problem--> it is the issue of MD vs DO

Answer 1

It doesn't really matter, and as long as you do well in whichever you choose, there shouldn't be an advantage issue.  DO training includes a good deal of work with manipulation, which you will have to decide whether or not you will use.  Despite the PR, they really do encourage a holistic view of medicine in MD schools too (at least that was my experience).  There are separate DO residencies which MDs are not eligible for, but DOs can enter the regular MD match if they choose.  Pediatrics is also not a hugely competitive specialty, so you can stop listening to any naysayers around you who are still stuck with the idea that having a DO is "less competitive."  (Actually I would say that even if you were saying you wanted to go into orthopedic surgery, because it really matters more how well you do than what school you went to.)  You will also have to take the Step 1 and 2 exams if you want to enter the regular Match, although they wouldn't be required if you chose a DO school.  But those are problems for later.

Once you're in residency, no one is really going to care which degree got you there.  I would suggest you base the decision on whether or not you like the individual schools as much as you can--there are big differences between different programs no matter which one you choose.

Answer 2

The are equal. They just have different belief systems on how to treat patients. I would apply to either, unless you aced your MCAT and have a 4.0 plus killer recommendation letters. There is a lot of competition out there. You really should be looking at the schools, rotations, what type of medical school they are rather than if the degree plan is MD or DO.

Answer 3

Well, some people are more comfortable seeing the MD degree although they are really equal. Which philosophy do you like more? MD uses more "science" (pills, surgery, shots, etc) while DO generally tries to make the body heal itself and not rush to pills and medication so fast.  The main difference is behind the philosophy of medicine - they both have equal practicing rights and make equal salaries although DO degrees are not accepted worldwide the way that MD degrees are.  

Answer 4

There the same ones an md and the other is doctor osteopathic