D.O. or Do Not: The Osteopathic Physician's Journey for Premed & Medical Students

Send us Fan MailOn today’s episode, we interview Dr. Miko Rose, A psychiatrist and the founding dean for the proposed Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  She will discuss the importance of the school and why it is so impressive that it will be one of the few State Osteopathic schools in existence.  She will discuss why it is so vital to fill the underserved primary care need and what the school plans to accomplish.  She will discuss growing up in an indigent family and how she discovered osteopathic medicine, ultimately training as a psychiatrist.  An amazing do not miss episode.

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode we meet Dr. Richard Thacker, the president-elect of the American Osteopathic Association.  We will learn why he decided to get involved in the organization and how he became the "future president" of the AOA.  Dr. Thacker's journey is inspiring and his enthusiasm is infectious.  You will love this episode. 

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode we interview Dr. Syliva Caswell, DO, MPH. Dr. Caswell is a double board-certified physician in Preventive Medicine/Public Health and Lifestyle Medicine. After earning her undergraduate degree in Anthropology with a Health emphasis from the University of Utah, she completed her osteopathic medical degree at Campbell University in North Carolina. Dr. Caswell began her journey in family medicine, completing her internship year and practicing as a general physician in southwest Florida. Along the way, she’s worn many hats, from being a health coach to a certified group fitness instructor, leading high-intensity interval training classes during her medical school and residency years. Most recently, Dr. Caswell completed her residency training in Preventive Medicine/Public Health at Loma Linda University Health, where she served as chief resident and also earned her Master of Public Health degree. In this episode, we discuss the differences between Preventive Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine, explore Dr. Caswell’s inspiring personal journey, and highlight her role as the Associate Program Director for the Preventive Medicine Residency at Loma Linda University Health. She also provides valuable insights on what it takes to match into this specialty, and the qualities residency programs look for.   Shout out to Suzanne Char, MS III for bringing us this episode!

Send us Fan MailFor those of you that don't know, in the modern system of medical school clinical rotations, students typically rotate at their "home institutions" or medical school affiliates.  One of the criticisms of post-graduate Osteopathic Medical education is that at some schools, students need to do a significant number of away rotations especially if they are interested in competitive surgical specialties.  The VSLO is an organization through the AAMC which allows American MD and American DO students to coordinate these rotations with outside hospitals.   This episode is mainly in response to posts on Redit and Youtube commenting on the process for Osteopathic Medical Students.  To shed some light on the topic, In this episode, we will interview Robin Carle, the director of VSLO at the AAMC to shed some light on the VSLO process and the validity of the comments regarding biases within the system against DO's. 

Send us Fan MailAlexander King is an ONMM specialist, who focuses on Manual therapy not just in an outpatient setting, but an inpateint setting as well!  He was in private practice, but transitioned to a teaching role at Rowan-Virta!  He was a rockstar at OMED!  Who else would make hats stating, "OMM SAVES LIVES!"  Amazing!

Send us Fan MailOn today's episode, we interivew Kimberly Wolf, DO. a professor at Touro California.   Dr. Wolf will discuss with us the modality of Cranial Osteopathic Manipulation and how she became interested in the field.  She will share her passion for helping children with this miraculous therapy and how Osteopathic Physicians can become proficient in the technique. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we interviewed Dr. Matthew Cannon, the Campus Dean for the Carolinas campus and Senior Dean for all four campuses of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Cannon emphasized the importance of character development, compassion, and community involvement in medical education. He highlighted the unique approach of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, focusing on its global mindset, community focus, and commitment to serving rural and medically underserved populations. Dr. Cannon emphasized the holistic approach to medicine and osteopathy, which considers the mind, body, and spirit when treating patients. During the discussion, we explored the importance of preparing medical students for board exams and clinical practice. Dr. Cannon underscored the role of complex and USMLE step exams in evaluating students' knowledge and skills. Additionally, we discussed the significance of a holistic approach to learning, including considering the student's work environment, stress levels, diet, and financial status, all of which can impact their educational journey and clinical practice.

Send us Fan MailOsteopathic education in surgery has undergone significant changes, especially with the transition to a single ACGME accreditation system in 2020. Despite initial concerns about equitable access and representation, studies have highlighted increasing competitiveness of osteopathic medical students in surgical residency matches and comparable outcomes between allopathic and osteopathic surgeons, affirming the quality of osteopathic training. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kristen Conrad-Schnetz, recent president of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (ACOS) and General Surgery program director at Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital, about osteopathy in general surgery. We delve into the role of osteopathic principles in surgical training and practice and the impact of transitioning to a single accreditation system. Dr. Conrad-Schnetz shares insights on overcoming misconceptions about DO surgeons and her vision for the future of osteopathic recognition in surgery. Join hosts Pooja Varman MD, Judith French PhD, and Jeremy Lipman MD, MHPE for this exciting conversation with Kristen Conrad-Schnetz, DO. Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this episode, listeners will be able to 1.     List the four tenets of osteopathic medicine2.     Identify how osteopathic principles and practices can be incorporated into surgical practice3.     Explain the significance of osteopathic recognition in residency programs4.     Discuss strategies for promoting equity for DO surgery residentsReferences1.  Williamson TK, Martinez VH, Ojo DE, et al. An analysis of osteopathic medical students applying to surgical residencies following transition to a single graduate medical education accreditation system. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine. 2024;124(2):51-59. doi:10.1515/jom-2023-0118 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37921195/2.  Russell TA, Yoshida R, Men M, et al. Comparison of Outcomes for Patients Treated by Allopathic vs Osteopathic Surgeons. JAMA Surgery. Published online October 16, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2024.4580 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39412774/3.  Etheart I, Krise SM, Burns JB, Conrad-Schnetz K. The Effect of Single Accreditation on Medical Student Match Rates in Surgical Specialties. Cureus. 2021;13(4):e14301. doi:10.7759/cureus.14301 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33968513/Please visit https://behindtheknife.org to access other high-yield surgical education podcasts, videos and more.  If you liked this episode, check out our recent episodes here: https://app.behindtheknife.org/listenIf it is helpful, here is a brief intro to Behind the Knife.  Behind the Knife is the world’s #1 surgical education platform. From high-yield educational topics to interviews with leaders in the field, Behind the Knife delivers the information you need to know. Behind the Knife's mission is to revolutionize surgical education by creating timely, relevant, and engaging content delivered through an easily accessible multimodal educational platform that meets the needs of busy surgeons and modern trainees.  

Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode we interview Dr. Dan Waters, a retired cardiothoracic surgeon. Dr. Waters is the author of multiple books and a column which appears semi-monthly In the DO online Journal, which is a must read.  This proud Osteopathic Trailblazer will reflect on his career as a cardiothoracic surgeon. He will take us through his medical school education at Rowan followed by his Specialty training at the elite institution, Cleveland clinic.  This beacon of Osteopathy will share with us  what being an osteopathic physician has meant to him over the span of his career and give advice to aspiring  Osteopathic surgeons interested in this clinical path.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we will interview Dr. Thomas Cavaliere, the current Dean of the Rowan Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Cavaliere graduated from the Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, following which he completed an internal medicine residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Under his leadership, the Rowan Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine has been named one of the best medical schools in the country for primary care and geriatric medical education. Dr. Cavalierey has also recently been selected to serve as the inaugural Senior Vice Provost of the Virtua Health College of Medicine and Life Sciences, as well as the Chief Academic Officer for the Virtua Health System. It is an honor to interview such an accomplished physician, and we believe his perspectives are valuable for everyone from pre-medical students to attending physicians. Dr. Cavaliere will discuss the advantages of pursuing a career in academic medicine, emphasizing the opportunity to combine clinical practice with teaching and research, and the fulfillment of caring for patients while training the next generation of physicians. We know you will love this episode.

Send us Fan MailIf you enter a residency in family practice is it limiting? We've always heard things like "jack of all trade but master of none?"  Not true!  Listen to this D.O. who does family practice, but did extra training in Obstetrics so that she can take care of mothers in labor and other more specialized areas of medicine!

Send us Fan MailToday’s guest speaker is Chrissa Karagiannis, a fourth year medical student at Touro California College of Osteopathic Medicine, who is currently in the thick of the residency application and interview process for Family Medicine. In today’s episode, Chrissa will share with us her experience participating in the National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program, as an excellent way for students interested in primary care specialties to alleviate the financial burdens of becoming a physician. Chrissa will share her journey to osteopathic medical school, and her passion for working with underserved populations, specifically in overdose prevention. Chrissa will share her involvement with SOMA’s Overdose Prevention Committee, and her experience with the AACOM Health Policy Internship, advocating for vulnerable populations and focusing on education for overdose training. Ultimately, I was inspired by Chrissa’s passion for advocacy and service with the opioid crisis, and I know you will enjoy this episode as much as we did.

Send us Fan MailD.O.'s are complete physicians in the US, but what happens if you go to another country?  This DO went to school in America, did residency and now is practicing in Canada?  How do you do that? Can you prescribe medications? Can you do OMM? How do patients think of Osteopathic Medicine up north?  Listen and find out!

Send us Fan MailDr. Storch again? YUP!  He is invited by Jim Dhale, MD to disucuss the benefits of osteopathic medicine and have a showdown with him on which degree is better!

Send us Fan MailWhat should someone know when applying to a Caribbean MD medical school?  We have been asked this question more than once, but this is a D.O. podcast!But we have the perfect answer. . . Today we speak to a couple, Jonah Zeitlin DO and Samantha Gerstman, MD. who went to undergraduate together and fell in love!One decided to to the D.O. route and the other the Caribbean M.D.  We will speak to them about their perceived differences!  What were to pros and cons?  Ultimately they successfully couples matched into ENT and Pediatrics!  We'll hear about that process as well!What a discussion!  Don't miss!

Send us Fan MailToday we will interview Sean McMilan, the president of the AOAO, which stands for the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics.  He will discuss why he feels orthopedics is a great specialty and what being a DO brings to the profession.  He will talk about his own difficult journey and how he pays it forward, helping Osteopathic Physicians accomplish their dream!  What a great episode!

Send us Fan MailDr Wunderler is a wonderful human being!She started her career as an Orthopedic Surgery resident but left when she found that the specialty was not for her.  She loved sports and shifted gears going into Family Practice with an fellowship in sports medicine.She now works for Harley Davidson. . . A dream job!But there is a dark side to the story.   Learn about SUDC and a time when two physicians came home from dinner to find their young daughter was not breathing!A difficult story and what the good doctor has done to remember her daughter, Vienna!

Send us Fan MailA member of the Board of Governors for the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons, Dr. Sogunro feels that she was "born to be a D.O."She will share with us her journey from growing up in Africa, to moving to Connecticut at 13 with a dream of becoming a physican.When she became saddened as a trauma surgeon taking care of victims of gang violence, she pivoted to breast surgery where she felt she could make a deeper impact.What an impressive woman and Osteopath!  Don't miss this one!

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode we have the pleasure of speaking to Dr. Anna Levy, D.O.   Dr. Levy is an oncologist who works in the very specialized area of liver related cancers.  Dr. Levy is Medical Director of Hepatobiliary Malignancies and the Hepatic Artery Pump Infusion Program, based at the R.J. Zuckerberg Cancer Center.   Dr Levy is  is Board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology.  She is  Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health Medical School.  Dr. Levy earned her medical degree at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine followed by an Internal Medicine Residency at the Christiana Care Health System and ultimately completed her fellowship in Medical Oncology and Hematology at the Long Island Jewish Medical Center.Dr. Levy will delve into the life of an oncologist and the difficulties treating very sick patients.  She will discuss the difficulties of work life balance and how her family and home life allow her to “keep her cup full."  Dr. Levy will discuss the problem of suicide, among physicians specifically among high stress professions such as Hematology/ Oncology.  Dr. Levy will share her journey which started as an emigre from the Ukraine.  She will tell us about her discovery of Osteopathic Medicine and how she developed a  love for oncology, a difficult and complex specialty.  Please join us in our discussion with this  remarkable physician. . . a discussion you won’t want to miss!

Send us Fan MailDirect Primary Care or DPC is a model of medicine that has been around for well over decade. It has become a growing movement of passionate physicians focusing on restoring the physician patient relationship and providing excellent healthcare at an affordable price. It gives patient’s direct access to their doctor, as well as an appropriate amount of time to really address illness and prevent disease. How is this possible you might ask? Well, by limiting the size of the doctor's patient panel, the patient is able to get the time they truly need and deserve. Instead of a panel of 4000 patients being seen in 5-10 minutes intervals, you have 400-600 patients being seen at 30-60 minute intervals. And instead of insurance denials and going through multiple administrative staff, you deal directly with your doctor. You can call, text, video chat, or email your doctor directly. You get same day or next day visits when you need them. It’s healthcare that makes sense. You simply pay a monthly membership fee, which covers your basic care. This also allows the doctor to provide cost savings to you on medications, labs, imaging and other services and procedures that are usually significantly overpriced. No insurance. No copays. Just you and the doc.

Send us Fan MailThis week, we are joined by Dr. Lisa Warren, Dean of Western University of Health Sciences, COMP and COMP-Northwest. Dr. Warren discusses the unique student experiences across the dual campuses and Western U’s commitment to preparing students for future healthcare challenges. She emphasizes the importance of humanism, collaboration, and compassion within the Western U community.Dr. Warren reflects on her healthcare upbringing and her passion for serving underserved communities. As a former student-athlete, she shares how teamwork influenced her pursuit of osteopathic medicine and the holistic approach to patient care. Tune in to hear how her experiences shape her leadership in guiding future osteopathic physicians.I’m confident you’ll find Dr. Lisa Warren’s insights inspiring as you navigate your own journey in medicine.

Send us Fan Mail This week, we are joined by Dr. Ginamarie Papia, a remarkable physician whose journey spans from her studies at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine to her current practice in integrative medicine. With a deep commitment to both traditional and complementary approaches, Ginamarie has seamlessly integrated her passion for patient-centered care with her expertise in osteopathic manipulative therapy. Her story embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication in the medical field. She will begin by sharing her path to becoming an osteopathic physician, highlighting how her values and the philosophy of osteopathic medicine aligned with her career goals. Ginamarie will then discuss her experiences at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, including the hands-on, problem-based learning approach that shaped her education. Finally, she’ll provide insights into her decision-making process for residency and how her journey led her to combine integrative medicine with endocrine practice. Dr. Ginamarie Papia’s experiences offer a unique perspective on blending traditional and integrative medicine. I hope her story motivates and provides you with fresh insights as you continue your own journey in the medical field.

Send us Fan MailToday, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Chris Belland, D.O., a retired Navy flight surgeon and the first osteopathic physician to serve as president of the Aerospace Medical Association. Dr. Belland was recommended by Dr. Hauler and the American Osteopathic association who together are spearheading an effort to educate physicians about patient safety, and foster a culture of transparency and responsibility.  Dr. Belland graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and has dedicated his career to improving patient safety by drawing on lessons from high-reliability industries like aviation and nuclear power. He shares his unique perspective on how these industries’ structured approaches to risk management, including the ‘Swiss cheese model’ of risk mitigation, can be applied to healthcare to prevent medical errors.In our conversation, Dr. Belland explains the importance of occupational and preventive medicine, describing the role and responsibilities of physicians with this training. With a background in both aviation and medicine, he’s been on the frontlines of aerospace medicine, having served in combat zones, ensuring the readiness of our nation’s elite aviators, and fostering trust with his osteopathic philosophy of holistic care.Dr. Belland continues to make waves in aerospace medicine—from advising companies on UV-C technology to reduce disease transmission in aircraft, to collaborating on global initiatives for pandemic response. His journey highlights the incredible impact that osteopathic principles can have, from taking care of aviators in high-stress environments to his leadership in advancing healthcare on a global scale.Join us as we talk about his extraordinary career, the role of a flight surgeon, the intersection of osteopathic medicine and aerospace, and much more.

Send us Fan MailThis is our third episode in a Series called M and M , or Myths and Misconceptions about Osteopathic Medicine.  Today we will tackle the sentiment that “Osteopathic Manual Medicine is Voodoo.”  Typically this is based on the fact that the scientific evidence behind the modality is limited.  I want to start by sharing with our listeners that a large percentage of what we do in “conventional medical care” on a daily basis does not have scientific foundation.  That having been said, there is no question that in Western Medicine- what we strive for is evidence to support our practice.  This includes many types of studies ranging from “bench work” in a lab to clinical research on patients.To tackle the question of is there “evidence” to support OMT, we will speak with Dr. Jordan Keys, DO professor of OMT at NYIT-COM and Dr. Kim Wolf, DO director of Pediatric OMM at  Touro California.  They will speak about their importance of showing the validity of Osteopathic Manipulation and the the others around the world that support their passion.They will share with us the conference they started this year which they call CORK or the Conference on Osteopathic Research and Knowledge, where they bring together scientist from around the world to share their insights into Evidence Based Osteopathic Care.

Send us Fan MailWe are always excited when listeners reach out to us to share their story.  Today, we're excited to speak with Josh Baker, a DO/PhD student at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Josh will explain the path that a clinician scientist can take, the importance of scientific research and what Osteopathic Medicine offers that is special in this regard.Josh shares his journey toward pursuing a dual doctorate degree, beginning with his early research experiences as an undergraduate that sparked his interest in osteopathic medicine. Dr. Baker explains what  t the process of applying to DO/PhD and MD/PhD program looks likeand explains the benefits of obtaining both a DO and a PhD, including diversifying one’s skills and enhancing patient care in medicine. Josh discusses the unique opportunities and diversity of research which led him to choose MSU to complete his dual degree. Additionally, Dr. Baker provides insights into his current neuroimaging research on traumatic brain injury and shares his future career goals in radiology. Join us as we delve into Josh's unique path and explore the intersections of research and clinical practice in osteopathic medicine.

Send us Fan MailMichael Ayoub was an Osteopathic Medical students with great expectations. . . and then  some difficulty passing a test called the COMLEX created a speed bump.  He didn't Match, he didn't SOAP. . . so what could he do?   Michael kept his chin up and took a job as a medical assistant with a pain management physician and tried again . . . and again.Dr. Ayoub never lost hope . . . never blamed anyone for his struggles . . . and continued to try.   In this "episode 4: A New Hope! "  Michael shares with us how he got through dark times in his medical journey and ultimately came out a Jedi!What a tale!

Send us Fan MailToday, we’re joined by Dr. Richard Terry, D.O., a family medicine physician and founding dean of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) Elmira campus, who also holds the title of  Assistant Dean of Regional Clinical Education. Dr. Terry shares how LECOM started the branch campus system and highlights the New York- Elmira campus’s problem-based learning curriculum, which fosters collaboration and prepares students for medical practice. Dr. Terry shares insights about the Elmira community and the early hands-on clinical rotations at local hospitals, starting as early as the first year of medical school. He highlights the robust research opportunities available to students, as well as LECOM’s mission to recruit New York State residents with a passion for serving underserved communities. We also discuss the accelerated six-year D.O. program in collaboration with the Elmira College and explore LECOM Elmira’s 100% match rate for 2024, with 52% of graduates matching into New York hospitals. Join us as we learn how LECOM Elmira is working to shape the future of osteopathic medicine and preparing students to make a meaningful impact.

Send us Fan MailToday’s episode is a crossover episode of an interview with Chris fullmer, a plastic surgery resident at Penn State.   To start, our listeners should know that for plastic surgery there are two paths, the traditional which includes application to general surgery followed by a second match into a plastic surgery fellowship and a newer path applying directly to integrated plastic surgery.Integrated plastics is one of the most competitive matches after medical school with a match rate 20 percentage points lower than the average every year.  Applicants are required to have extraordinary Step Scores, high numbers of research papers and significant volunteer hours in addition to stellar audition rotations.  Chris will discuss his journey starting as a soccer player in college and going on a Mormon Mission before deciding on medical school.  He will discuss his decision to attend osteopathic medical school and how his DO student friend’s father, a renowned plastic surgeon helped to define his path.  He will speak about the trials and tribulations including addiction and balancing his relationship with his wife throughout his quest with achieving his dream.   Ultimately he inadvertently speak about the “secred DO handshake” and how finding a DO attending at Penn State may have ultimately helped him seal his fate.We would like to thank Curtis Wilkerson Curtis Wilkerson, a rising first year osteopathic student at Michigan state, for the interview.  An unedited version can be found on the podcast the physician's mind.

Send us Fan MailToday, we have a special guest, Dr. Nicholas Elwert, DO, MS, who wears many hats in the field of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R). Dr. Elwert is an Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky, where he also serves as the Stroke Rehabilitation Program Director and Associate Residency Program Director. With a deep passion for neuro-rehabilitation, and spasticity management, Dr. Elwert brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to today’s conversation.In this episode, we dive into the world of PM&R, exploring what a typical day looks like for Dr. Elwert, the kinds of patients he sees, and how his work makes a difference in their lives. We also discuss his roles at the University of Kentucky, from teaching residents to shaping the future of the PM&R program. For students interested in pursuing a career in PM&R, Dr. Elwert shares valuable insights on what it takes to match into this specialty, the qualities residency programs look for, and advice on preparing a competitive application.We also dive into Dr. Elwert’s personal journey through osteopathic medical school at Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, his fellowship in OMM/Anatomy, and how these experiences shaped his career in academic medicine.

Send us Fan MailWe love when amazing Osteopathic Physicians reach out to us to be on the Podcast!  Today we interview Dr. Levy-Gantt,  A board certified OB/GYN who practices in Napa Valley!  She will speak to us about how she manages a solo practice in California and her work as an author.   Dr. Gantt will discuss her journey from physical therapy into medical school and finally a residency in a competitive specialty.   Her story is not for the faint hearted!  She will share her uphill battle to getting a positition in OB starting with a one year spot NO GUARANTEE!  Her story is one of DO Grit which allowed her to manage family and career and obtain success in both her personal and professional life!  Don't miss this one!

Send us Fan MailOn today's episode we interview Dr. Harmit Kalia, the Outreach Director for Northwell Health's liver transplant program and a board certified Gastroenterologist and Transplant Hepatologist- Dr. Kalia will tell us about his journey into medicine and how he decided to attend Osteopathic Medical School.  He will describe how his close relationship with a mentor ignited his love for liver disease and put him on a path for an internal medicine residency, a fellowship in gastroenterology and finally an extra training in Transplant Hepatology.  This D.O. helps patients get a new lease on life by getting them a new liver!We know you will love this episode!

Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode we're thrilled to have Dr. Bill Admire, a physician whose dedication to both community and professional leadership is truly inspiring. Dr. Admire holds many titles,  including  Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of the Infirmary Health System in Alabama. He  serves as a Core site Medical Director for the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine and is a board member of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. Dr. Admire has recently taken on the role as the Designated Institutional Official for the Mobile Infirmary Graduate Medical Education Program’s Internal Medicine Residency, further extending his impact on the next generation of medical professionals. He discusses his philosophy on the importance of leadership and volunteerism in medicine.In today’s interview Dr. Admire shares with us lessons he has learned and his experiences starting as a practicing physician, moving to entrepreneurship by starting and growing a large medical group and maturing into a role as a leader and educator during 30-year career.  Dr Admire will share  his personal philosophy on medicine and  the importance of leadership and volunteerism.  We know you will  love this episode!

Send us Fan Mail  On today's episode we interview Dr. David Shumway, DO.  David was invited to speak at the recommendation of Dr. Jennifer Hauler after a recent presentation to the American Osteopathic Association on Artificial Intelligence and it's importance to the osteopathic community. David will give us a definition and history of AI and explain to us it's relevance to modern medicine and his thoughts on the future of the technology.  He will discuss his own path from a military family as the son of a Navy Pilot to his undergraduate education in oregon.  He will speak to us the importance of his Gastroenterology Mentor who sparked his interest in medicine. He will discuss his gap years working in epcot/ disney where he met his wife.  Finally he will tell us about his time at AT Still Arizona, followed by a residency in internal medicine with the HPSP Airforce Scholarship and how his career has come full circle as he prepares to follow in the footsteps of his father through a fellowship in Aerospace Medicine while spending time with his wife's family in Great Brittain.  We hope you learn as much from Captain Shumway as we did!

Send us Fan MailM&M in medical terms mean Morbidity and Mortality (why did someone get sick or die!).   In this series we are using the term to stand for MYTHS and MISCONCEPTIONS about Osteopathic Medical education in response to posts and   websites which abound   on the internent.  Today's episode will address the value of an Osteopathic School education.  Specifically we will address the question: is it worth the money to invest in a DO degree and  the mission statement of many Osteopathic Schools . . .  to train primary care docs. Who would we ask to comment on this?  None other than the famous, brilliant  financial wizard . . . . White Coat Investor!Who is the White Coat Investor? Jim Dahle MD says it's not him . . . its you!  Dr. Dhale has a blog, podcast and courses to teach doctors about finances and money.  Today he will take about investing in an Osteopathic Medical education and answer the question. . . is the Juice worth the Squeeze!  

Send us Fan MailOn todays episode we interview Amanda Martin, DO an orthopedic surgeon  who is practicing in Nashville Tennessee.  Amanda will start her story by telling us about her experience as a sports medicine doctor at the 2024 Olympics  working with the Women's Soccer team which won gold.   Amanda is an amazing woman who puts G-D and family first with Orthopedics as a close second.  She tells us about what it was like growing up with in an Osteopathic Family and her path into a competitive subspecialties.  She will give tips not only on how to survive but how to strive as a woman in Orthopedics.  Finally we will talk about her feelings on Natasha Bray, DO, her sister and  dean at OSU COM and we put Amanda’s  hand to fire by asking her who she would consider more successful. . . a Harvard trained D.O. Dean or a D.O. Sports trained Orthopedic Surgeon!This is a D.O. not miss episode!

Send us Fan MailToday, we're thrilled to have Alex Sher, DO, arising first year psychiatry resident and writer for the D.O. who was born and raised in southern florida.  Alex’s story is special as medicine is a second career and he started as an Registered Nurse on a Surgical floor.  Dr. Sherd had a thirst for knowledge and  went back to school at night while working full time to get a degree as a Nurse Practitioner, ultimately working in a family practice and then an Urgent Care Clinic.  With the support of some strong Osteopathic Mentors, Alex picked up his family and moved to Tennessee to attend the Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine.Alex will discuss with us how  As a non-traditional student with a family, he navigated the challenges of taking the MCAT, returning to college, and applying to medical school. He offers valuable advice to those considering different paths in healthcare. He will explain his pride in Osteopathic Medicine that led him to become active on the DO magazines Editorial advisory board. Join us as we explore Alex's unique story and gain insights into the diverse opportunities within the medical field.

Send us Fan MailThe D.O. philosophy fits perfectly with primary care specialties such as family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics and OB/GYN.  Can a D.O. go into competitive specialties such as Neurosurgery?  YES THEY CAN!This week, we’re joined by Dr. Xavier P. J. Gaudin, a renowned neurosurgeon known for his expertise in spinal surgeries, endovascular interventions, and deep brain stimulation. His innovative techniques and dedication to patient care have made a significant impact in neurosurgery. Dr. Gaudin will share his path into neurosurgery, the challenges of residency, and strategies for success. He’ll also discuss his practice in New York, the hurdles of securing a position in a major city, and his approach to work-life balance. Finally, he will offer advice for aspiring neurosurgeons and insights into how the field is evolving.

Send us Fan MailToday we interview Dr. Joel Feder in what is one of Dr. Storch's favorite interviews to date.  Dr. Feder retired from Family practice after over 40 years.  He discuses with us his career and passion for osteopathic medicine, family practice and his time in the millitary.  Most interestingly, Dr. Feder shares with us what he has been doing in his retirement including teaching, taking care of the homeless and going on a medical mission to Vietnam.After he graduated in 1975 from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB), he did his residency in the Navy at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Philadelphia. He served on active duty in the Navy for three years, and then served in the reserves for 35 years, retiring in 2008 as a Navy captain.Dr. Feder's passion for family medicine and Osteopathy is viral.  If you were considering this career path but weren't sure. . . Dr. Feder's "retrespectoscope" will remove all doubt!

Send us Fan MailToday we have a deep conversation with Dr. Richard Riemer about the Touro University Medical Group, which he has helped to create and run.  Dr. Riemer will discuss the importance of strong clinical and post graduate medical opportunities at a medical school and what he is doing to expand these opportunities at Touro-California.Richard B. Riemer, DO, is a specialist in neurology at Touro University Medical Group.  Dr. Riemer treats all neurologic conditions with an emphasis on neuromusculoskeletal and spine disordersDr. Riemer earned his Doctor of Medicine from the AT Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri. He then completed his internship at Tucson General Hospital in Arizona and his residency at the University of California Davis in Sacramento.Dr. Riemer has been endowed with numerous awards throughout his career, including Outstanding Educator of the Year (UC Davis Neurology), Physician of the Year (Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeon), and Volunteer Faculty (UC Davis). We know you will enjoy this episode!

Send us Fan MailIn this weeks episode we hightlight Brian Loveless one of the authors of the DO journal where he discusses important topics such as Osteopathic distinctiveness. In our interview he will discuss not only his role as Associate Professor of NMM/OMM at Western University and his position as Chief Medical Officer at WesternU Health, but   why he thinks it is important to him to keep up his family practice clinical skills by working in Urgent Care.  Dr Loveless is a strong advocate for Osteopathic Medicine and champions the need for DO's to be proud of the profession.We have no doubt that listening to Dr. Loveless will make you LOVE Osteopathy MORE!  This is one amazing interview you won't want to miss!

Send us Fan Mail This week we are joined by Dr. Richard Jadick, author of the book “On Call In Hell” which chronicles his time as a physician in the navy, where he was awarded the Bronze Star with “Combat V” device for heroic valor after he saved many lives during the second battle of Fallujah. Dr. Jadick talks about his journey to osteopathic medicine starting with the time where his drive to become a physician was born during a snowy night as a Marine (Yes he was a Marine as well!) Dr. Jadick details his time in the military before, during, and after his medical career and how his Urology program in Augusta held a position for him while he was serving our country. While serving as a physician in the Navy, he went to  the front lines because of his medical belief that every minute following an traumatic injury was crucial to the life of a Marine. We found Dr. Jadick’s story fascinating and we know that you will too!

Send us Fan MailIn today’s we present our first in a series of  myths and misconceptions episode about Osteopathic Medicine.  Why are there so many new DO schools? There are many online comments and on  blogs commenting on the reason why, over the past ten years, so many Osteopathic Schools have opened.  Most of the reasons presented are unfounded and just plain untrue. Dr. Storch was asked this question on a recent interview on the white coat investor and was unable to answer it. . . so we decided to do some digging!Today we will find the true  answer to this question through an interview Chad Toujague, the director of the Dr. Kiran C Patel Institute for Graduate Medical Education.  The institute has not only supported an Osteopathic school at Nova Southeastern, opened a new Osteopathic School in Orlando, and opened a new MD school in the United States at Nova Southeastern , but are opening international schools in India and Africa as well!  Do you think Chad had a better answer than say. . . a pediatric nephrologist?  Of course he did!  Want to know why so many new DO schools have opened recently and Coca’s response to this phenomenon? Listen closely to today’s interview and learn!  We certainly did!

Send us Fan MailOn today’s episode, we interview Dr. Angela Franklin who is the President and CEO of Des Moines University.  Des Moines University Medical and Health Sciences Division is home of the second osteopathic school to open up in the United States and the 15th largest medical school in the country. The dean, Angela Franklin,  is a licensed clinical psychologist who completed her PhD at Emory University followed by a clinical internship at Grady Memorial Hospital. Our conversation with Dr. Franklin touches on several topics including her roles and responsibilities as President and CEO of DMU as well as the importance of opportunity and preparation for life’s challenges. For our pre-medical listeners, medical students, and members of the medical community, Dr. Franklin shares pearls of wisdom that you won’t want to miss. 

Send us Fan MailToday's episode is short but powerful!  Hear about the D.O. or DO not road trip to OMED in Orlando!  We had the chance to spend time with the AOA and interview Osteopathic Medical Students from around the country!  Their excitement is infectious!  A special thanks to OnLineMedEd for allowing us to use their booth to conduct our interviews. For those of you not able to attend, we highly recommend a trip to San Antonio,Texas for the meeting next year!

Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode we will share with you an amazing rural family practice physician who represents the pinnacle of what all Osteopathic Physicians should strive to be.  Dr. Mylhan Myers was born in southern Missouri in an “Osteopathic Family” with multiple members who attended A.T. Still University in Kirksville.  Not surprisingly, with this background Dr. Meyers followed in their footsteps and knew early on that he wanted to go into Family Medicine.  Dr. Meyers found a passion for OB/GYN and decided to not only do his residency in Medicine Residency in Wichita, KS, but an OB/GYN fellowship as well.  He ultimately moved back to his hometown to come full circle with his practice.During the interview, Dr. Myers paints a beautiful picture of his practice which  seamlessly interweaves him into the fabric of community with deep patient relationships relationships in the outpatient clinic and ranging to  inpatient medicine in the hospital as well as the delivery of babies which has always been his passion. He describes his time in military and the perspectives it provided him through his journey. We hope you enjoy this evocative episode.

Send us Fan MailThis week’s episode features two  4th year medical students Madison Salvitti and Ethan Kremer who will share with us their medical experience doing Osteopathic Research in Europe.  The trip was facilitated by Dr. Jordan Keys, the Director of the  Osteopathic Manipulation Center at NYIT-COM  (episode 106).  Madison and Ethan flew to Italy and spent 3 weeks in  Milan and Pescara participating and learning about Osteopathic Research in Italy.  They will share their experiences seeing first hand how the "diplomats of osteopathic medicine" practiced side by side with Conventional MD practitioners to help facilitate the care of neonates and children.  They will explain how DO's in europe differ from those in the US and the things they feel that we can learn from them.  Finally Madison will speak about her path to a competitive surgical residency while Ethan will give advice on the Emergency Medicine match and how to choose the right hospital.  Check out CORK (the Conference on Osteopathic Research and Knowledge) in New York on June 22-23, 2024!

Send us Fan MailDr. Bradley Block is an ENT physician (M.D.) who has a podcast to teach doctors "things they should have been learning while they were studying the Kreb's Cycle."  Dr. Block reached out to us to discuss what Osteopathic Medicine is and what the differences between "Allopathic" or M.D. degrees and "Osteopathic" or D.O. degrees were.  For those of you who are not already familiar with what the D.O. difference is. . . Dr. Block's interview with Dr. Storch's  will help answer many of your questions!

Send us Fan MailThis week we are joined by Bryce Piro, a medical student at VCOM - Carolinas who started his own company while in medical school - CoffeeDocs Co. Bryce gives an inside view of his journey and what prompted his idea to start this company with his roommates. He will discuss the process behind making his idea a reality, including how he got started as a content creator and how he ultimately transformed that into so much more. He will detail some of the procedures he went through in getting started as a LLC and what it took for his company to hit the ground running, as well as the valuable cause behind CoffeeDocs Co. Bryce then details his journey into medicine including how he found his calling and the various stops he took along the way that ultimately landed him at VCOM - Carolinas. Lastly, Bryce will discuss what he values most about his experience at VCOM - Carolinas and offers some parting advice for those who aspire to follow a similar path. I hope you enjoy hearing about his story and find it valuable for whatever path you pursue!

Send us Fan MailThis week, we are joined by Dr. Michael Foti, a dedicated physician who serves as a professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, bringing his expertise and passion for medical education to the next generation of healthcare professionals. With a recommendation from the esteemed Dr. John Gimpel, Michael brings a wealth of experience as both a practitioner and educator. His journey, much like his passion for mental health advocacy, embodies resilience and compassion. As Michael reflects on his own challenges and triumphs, he echoes a sentiment from his journey: "You should never let where you come from dictate where you go."He will start by sharing insights into his harrowing experiences as an intern during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, grappling with chaos and loss in the hospital. Then, he opens up about his personal battle with anxiety and depression, shedding light on the stigma surrounding mental health in the medical profession. Finally, Michael shares how he turned his own struggles into a mission to advocate for physician wellness and support medical students in their journey.I'm confident you'll find Dr. Michael Foti's story both engaging and insightful. May his journey inspire you on your own pursuits.

Send us Fan MailDr. Andrea Amalfitano is an osteopathic physician, has a PhD, is a pediatrician, geneticist, educator, patient advocate, virologist, dean . . . and so much more!In today's episode Dr. Amalfitano discusses his pathway to Osteopathic Medicine,  from an immigrant family and a father who recommended medicine becuase. . . "doctors are never out of work!"  to a pediatric residency at the esteemed "Mayo Clinic," to being a researcher at Duke University and ultimately coming full circle to return to Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine as Dean.Dr. Amalfitano is well spoken, witty, and may be the smartest D.O. we've had as a guest to date.Listen to his ideas on Osteopathic Medicine . . . MSU  . . . PhD.  . . clinical medicine and the adenovirus!   He will make you want to go to Osteopathic School AND pursue a PhD!