Osteopathic medical schools have experienced significant growth in recent years. Since 2019, the number of osteopathic medical schools has increased from 38 to 44, with campuses now operating at 71 locations across 36 states. The growth is attributed to the osteopathic medical education's flexibility, willingness to establish schools in underserved areas, and community-based approach that differentiates them from traditional MD programs. "It's a steady and progressive growth. We have about 40,000 students. That's an increase of 10,000 students since 2019," says Robert A. Cain, DO, president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine.

The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine, the state's first standalone medical school, is celebrating its 10th year. ICOM President Tracy Farnsworth, EdD, said many students from Idaho and other states decide to make their state their home for practicing medicine. Dr. Farnsworth expects the school to continue to grow in the next 10 years.

"Country Doctor," airing on HBO, highlights the rural health care crisis in the US through the experiences of James Graham, DO, a family medicine physician in Fairfax, Okla. Dr. Graham, an alumnus of Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine , has served his community for 47 years, emphasizing kindness and compassion in his practice. "The caring and comfort that Dr. Graham gives to his patients is unlike anything I’ve experienced living in a big city. I wish I had a country doctor," said Shari Cookson, a filmmaker and producer of the documentary.

Sul Ross State University and the Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine are partnering to create a medical school pathway for students through the Texas State University System's Physician Pathway Early Achievement Program.

The Go D.O. Early Scholars Program, a partnership between West Virginia Wesleyan College and the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, is celebrating the entry of its first graduates into medical school. The program guarantees acceptance to WVSOM for students who meet specific academic criteria and complete undergraduate requirements.

Medical students at the A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine will offer free osteopathic manipulative treatment to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Nov. 8. The event will be hosted by the Student Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons and the Student American Academy of Osteopathy.

Students and faculty from the Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific--Northwest joined the Oregon Health Science University and community partners at the Health Care Equity Fair on Oct. 25. The event offered free services to people who are uninsured or underinsured, including primary care, health and vision screenings, vaccinations and access to local resources.

"AACOM is incredibly proud of these institutions for their unwavering dedication to promoting a culture of belonging and prioritizing the well-being of future physicians," said AACOM President and CEO Robert A. Cain, DO. Read more.

The Collegium of Fellows is an honor recognizing long and meritorious service to the AOGME and the osteopathic profession. This distinguished recognition is open to both physicians and non-physicians who have demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the field and continued engagement in AOGME. Applications close December 1, 2025.

You'll also read about a KCU-COM student’s unexpected ultrasound discovery, a new UNT Health-TCOM grant to enhance patient empathy and WVSOM’s faculty and staff national appointments. Read more.