Charleston Leader

U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito, Joe Manchin, Roger Wicker, Martin Heinrich, and Jim Risch have reintroduced a bipartisan resolution designating April 15-21, 2024, as National Osteopathic Medicine Week. The resolution aims to recognize the service and dedication of Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and schools of osteopathic medicine nationwide.

Senator Capito emphasized the importance of osteopathic medicine in American healthcare, stating, “Osteopathic medicine plays a critical part in the health and wellbeing of Americans.” She commended the work of Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, particularly highlighting the contributions of practitioners and students at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Senator Manchin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the essential role that DOs play in West Virginia's healthcare workforce. He expressed pride in leading the bipartisan resolution to honor the contributions of osteopathic physicians and schools of osteopathic medicine in providing quality healthcare services to communities.

Senator Wicker recognized the significance of institutions like William Carey University in advancing osteopathic medicine, stating, “Our bipartisan resolution honors doctors and schools of osteopathic medicine such as William Carey University, which helps Mississippi lead the way in this field.”

James W. Nemitz, President of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, expressed gratitude for the Senate's recognition of National Osteopathic Medicine Week. He highlighted the holistic approach of osteopathic medicine, where patients are seen as whole beings, and underscored the contributions of WVSOM to West Virginia's healthcare landscape.

DOs undergo extensive training, completing four years of osteopathic medical school, followed by internships, residencies, and fellowships spanning three to eight years before becoming licensed and board-certified. Representing 11% of all physicians in the nation, DOs practice in various specialties, focusing on preventative medicine and comprehensive patient care.

The bipartisan resolution seeks to raise awareness of the contributions of osteopathic medicine to healthcare and society. More information on the resolution is available for review.