In 1874, Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., D.O., created the concept of treating illnesses within the context of the “whole body.” Thus, the philosophy of osteopathic medicine, which views body systems as interrelated and dependent upon one another, was formed.
Each year, National Osteopathic Medicine (NOM) Week, recognized by the American Osteopathic Association, raises awareness of the profession and philosophy. This year, NOM Week takes place April 19-25. It is also intended to bring appreciation to the more than 145,000 Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.s) and osteopathic medical students across the country.
D.O.s are fully licensed physicians who can prescribe medicine and practice in all medical specialties, including surgical specialties. They are trained to evaluate the whole body, using their hands to help diagnose and treat patients.
In West Virginia, more than 1,200 licensed osteopathic physicians are dedicated to improving the health of their communities through education and awareness-based efforts in addition to delivering quality health services.
The city of Lewisburg, W.Va., acknowledges these physicians every spring during the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine’s (WVSOM) Celebrate Osteopathic Medicine Week. Past Lewisburg Mayor John Manchester first declared the recognition in the early 2000s and, since then, a proclamation has been signed by the town’s mayor annually. Lewisburg Mayor Beverly White will sign this year’s proclamation.
The local awareness effort is intended to urge citizens and community organizations to support the observance by helping to educate residents about osteopathic medicine. WVSOM graduates have an impact that extends beyond Lewisburg — 834 graduates from 1978 to 2016 currently practice in West Virginia, and 3,035 in the U.S., encompassing all specialties.