DOs do research!

Many aspiring physicians shy away from osteopathic schools because they fear that they won't get the opportunity to do research. This is an unfortunate misconception. There are many people attending osteopathic medical schools that are getting involved in research projects.

Through a quick search I was able to find many different examples of DOs involved in research:

• LMU-DCOM student Katherine Sage and her research entitled "Genetic Analysis of the MMP7 gene on Age Related Macular Degeneration."
• Both PhD and DO Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) faculty involved in research.
• LECOM has and entire devision called the LECOM Research Collective devoted to research and students may apply to participate in research projects.
• Finally you can definitely proof of osteopathic physicians involved in research when you take a moment to look at the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (JAOA).

And the list of DOs involved in research can go on forever. Now it may be true that in osteopathic medical schools research may not be the number the top priority; however, teaching the students to understand research and be competent, caring, and qualified physicians is a top priority for all the schools.

If you are planning on attending medical school and love research don't be afraid to look into osteopathic medical schools. Do your homework and figure out which schools the best opportunities for you.

Finally, remember that no matter what your research experience is like through medical school, if you love research you will have opportunities throughout your career to get involved. Medicine is always in need of good research. If you love research then there is room for you.