HEALTH
Who's Missing from the US Medical Guidelines?
USATue Mar 18 2025
The world of medicine is always changing. Today, it is all about evidence. This means doctors use research to guide their decisions, not just their own opinions. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, or DOs, have a big role to play in this. They make up 11% of all practicing doctors in the US. This number is growing, as more and more medical students choose osteopathic schools.
The problem is that DOs are not always involved in creating these guidelines. This is a big deal. Without a seat at the table, DOs might lose control over how they practice medicine. It's not just about numbers. It's about making sure all voices are heard.
Think about it. If DOs are not part of the process, their unique perspective might be missing. This could lead to guidelines that don't fully represent the diverse ways medicine is practiced. It's not just about DOs. It's about making sure all doctors have a say in how medicine is practiced.
So, what can be done? For starters, DOs need to get more involved in guideline development. This means stepping up and volunteering to be part of the process. It also means advocating for more representation. This is not just about DOs. It's about making sure all doctors have a voice.
The future of medicine is in the hands of those who shape its guidelines. It's time for DOs to take their place at the table. This is not just about DOs. It's about making sure all doctors have a say in how medicine is practiced.
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questions
How does the 11% representation of DOs in practicing physicians translate to their involvement in guideline development?
What specific barriers might DOs face in becoming more involved in guideline development?
If guideline development were a sport, would DOs be the benchwarmers or the star players?
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