what does do stand for as a doctor

DO stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. A DO is a fully trained and licensed physician who graduates from a U.S. osteopathic medical school. DOs practice a whole-person approach to medicine, which means they consider both the physical and mental needs of their patients. They strive to help patients be truly healthy in mind and body, not just free of symptoms. DOs incorporate osteopathic and holistic methods and spend a lot of time focusing on preventive healthcare as well. After medical school, both DOs and MDs must complete training as residents in the specialty they choose and pass the same licensing exam before they can treat people and prescribe medicines.