AOA (American Osteopathic Association)

The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) is a professional organization representing osteopathic physicians (DOs) in the United States. Osteopathic medicine is a branch of healthcare that emphasizes a holistic approach, considering the whole body and its environment in treatment. The AOA supports education, research, and advocacy for osteopathic medicine, aiming to improve patient care and healthcare policies. It also sets standards for osteopathic medical education and promotes the unique philosophies of osteopathy, which include the belief in the body's ability to heal itself and the importance of preventative healthcare.