Wicker, Capito unveil resolution to recognize osteopathic medicine doctors

U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) helped lead a bipartisan resolution to recognize the service of more than 134,000 osteopathic physicians by designating April 18-24 as National Osteopathic Medicine Week.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) make up more than 10 percent of all physicians in the nation and emphasize preventative medicine and comprehensive patient care. 

There are also approximately 33,800 osteopathic medical students in the United States. DOs complete four years of medical school, along with internships, residencies, and fellowships over three to eight years before becoming licensed and board-certified.

“I am glad to join my colleagues in recognizing the hard work of doctors of osteopathic medicine across the country who continue to help provide care to Americans from all backgrounds,” Sen. Wicker said. “I especially appreciate the work of Mississippi’s William Carey University, which is home to a strong osteopathic medicine program.”

The bipartisan resolution, also introduced by U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV), states that osteopathic physicians play an important role in the U.S. healthcare system. Osteopathic physicians have been critical in treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“National Osteopathic Medicine Week gives us an opportunity to bring awareness to the critical role osteopathic medicine, including those who practice it, plays in the health and well-being of West Virginia’s communities,” Sen. Capito said. “I’m proud to join a bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing this resolution today, and look forward to continue supporting those who provide these important health care services to West Virginians young and old across our state,” the senator said on April 19.