The American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians & Gynecologists is dedicated exclusively to women's health care. The ACOOG traces its origins to 1934 when a group of practicing obstetricians in the osteopathic profession met in Wichita, Kansas and formed an association. A D.O.-OB/GYN is committed to the physical, mental and emotional health of women.

Osteopathic Medicine - An American Tradition
In 1874, Andrew Taylor Still developed Osteopathy Dr. Still, a civil war Physician, was dissatisfied with the effectiveness of 19th century medicine. He believed that many of the medicines of the day were useless or even harmful.

In response to this, Dr. Still founded a unique philosophy of medicine based on ideas that date back to Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine. The philosophy focuses on the unity of all body parts and identifies the musculoskeletal system as a key element of health. Dr. Still pioneered the concept of "wellness" over 100 years ago.

D.O. Means DOctor
Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) have a four year undergraduate degree. They complete four years of medical education and many pursue specialty training, such as Obstetrics and Gynecology. They must then pass state licensing examinations in order to practice.

But There Is A Difference!
Osteopathic medical schools emphasize the "whole person" approach to medicine. Osteopathic physicians receive extra training in the musculoskeletal system. This gives D.O.s a therapeutic and diagnostic advantage over those who do not receive additional training.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is part of all osteopathic physician's training. By combining all other medical procedures with OMT, D.O.s offer their patients the most comprehensive care available in medicine today.

And That's Not All
As a member of ACOOG, a D.O.-OB/GYN has undergone rigorous training. After four years of medical school, they complete a one year internship followed by four years of specialty training in obstetrics and gynecology.

To merit certification in obstetrics and gynecology, D.O.s must pass special oral and written examinations, and while in practice they are examined by the American Osteopathic Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. A D.O.-OB/GYN must then continue the educational process by attending conferences, seminars, and teaching.

For the Historian Committee