AOA CORE COMPETENCIES

Osteopathic Principles and Practice
Demonstration and application of knowledge of accepted standards in osteopathic manipulative treatment appropriate to the specialty; dedication to life-long learning and to incorporating the practice of osteopathic philosophy and OMM in patient care.

Medical Knowledge
Demonstration and application of knowledge of accepted standards of clinical medicine in the respective area; remain current with new developments in medicine and participate in life-long learning.

Patient Care
Demonstrate the ability to effectively treat patients and provide medical care that incorporates the osteopathic philosophy, patient empathy, awareness of behavioral understanding of research methods; improve patient care practices.

Interpersonal/Communication Skills
Demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills that enable a physician to establish and maintain professional relationships with patients, families and other members of healthcare teams.

Systems-Based Practice
Demonstrate an understanding of healthcare delivery systems; provide effective and qualitative patient care within the system; and practice cost effective medicine

Professionalism
Uphold the Osteopathic Oath in the conduct of one's professional activities that promotes advocacy of patient welfare, adherence to ethical principles, and collaboration with health professional, life-long learning, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population; be cognizant of physical and mental health in order to effectively care for patients.

Practice-Based Learning and Improvement
Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate methods of clinical practice, integrate evidence-based medicine into patient care; show and understanding of research methods; improve patient care practices.