The AAO Journal, 1997/03, 7(1):10-15, 30-34, type of study: ,css,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Free full text   (https://www.academyofosteopathy.org/assets/aaoj/AAOJ_Spring1997.pdf)

Keywords:

attitude [170]
cross sectional study [894]
medical students [694]
osteopathic medicine [2109]
USA [1752]

Abstract:

Due to the increasing recognition of equality with allopathic physicians, the osteopathic profession has reached an identity crisis, sending mixed messages to osteopathic medical students. In order to determine the attitude of osteopathic students, the author, a fourth-year student at New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, surveyed the second, third and fourth year classes at NYC OM (during his second year) as to their beliefs and perceptions pertaining to osteopathy, their osteopathic medical education, and future graduate medical education. Results of those responding showed that although most students entered medical school allopathically oriented, the educational system has had a good degree of success in instilling osteopathic values and an appreciation of osteopathic manipulative treatment. Yet, the system's success has been shown to be far from complete, as the majority of students' commitment to osteopathy is uncertain at best, due to the profession's identity crisis. The author concludes that serious changes will need to be instituted in the educational system in order to produce more committed DOs and ensure the future vitality of this profession.