New data highlights strong contributions to rural health and underserved communities

Newly released rankings from U.S. News & World Report underscore the significant role osteopathic medical schools play in preparing physicians to serve in high-need areas across the country. The latest data show that colleges of osteopathic medicine (COMs) continue to distinguish themselves in graduating Doctor(s) of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) who enter primary care and practice in rural and medically underserved communities.

According to the rankings:

• Osteopathic medical schools account for nine of the top 10 schools for graduates practicing in primary care.
• Osteopathic medical schools represent six of the top 10 for physicians working in rural areas.
• Osteopathic medical schools make up five of the top 10 schools for those serving in medically underserved communities.

These outcomes reinforce the osteopathic profession’s ongoing commitment to improving access to care where it is needed most.

“These results demonstrate the consistent and measurable impact of the osteopathic profession. Osteopathic medical education is intentionally designed to meet current healthcare needs. These rankings affirm that our graduates are stepping up to serve in communities that rely on them the most,” said American Osteopathic Association (AOA) President Robert G. G. Piccinini, DO, D.FACN.

The growing presence of COMs across 36 states reflects a broader, mission-driven approach to medical training and one that emphasizes community-based, whole-person care to address healthcare needs nationwide.

AOA CEO Kathleen S. Creason, MBA, emphasized the broader implications of the findings, saying, “At a time when the nation faces ongoing physician shortages, particularly in primary care and rural regions, this recognition highlights the critical role our COMs play. The success of osteopathic medical training translates directly into improved access to care and healthier communities across the country.”

The U.S. News & World Report rankings show the growing influence of osteopathic medicine in strengthening the physician workforce and advancing equitable healthcare delivery throughout the United States.

To learn more about the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), the DO Difference and the many ways this medical practice is influencing the field, visit osteopathic.org.

About the American Osteopathic Association (AOA)
The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) represents more than 207,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students; promotes public health; encourages scientific research; and serves as the primary certifying body for DOs. To learn more about DOs and the osteopathic philosophy of medicine, visit findado.osteopathic.org.

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"The success of osteopathic medical training translates directly into improved access to care and healthier communities across the country," said AOA CEO Kathleen S. Creason, MBA.