HSC’s Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine remains one of nation’s best medical schools for primary care

According to the latest U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings, the best medical school for primary care in Texas is the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. TCOM is not only the leading medical school in Texas, but also the highest-ranked osteopathic medical school nationwide.

What other rankings has TCOM received? 

• It ranks No. 11 among all medical schools.
• TCOM is the highest-rated osteopathic medical school in the nation.
• It’s also the second straight year that TCOM was the top-ranked osteopathic school nationwide. 
• U.S. News & World Report placed TCOM as the No. 3-ranked osteopathic school in the nation in research.
• Moreover, it was ranked No. 47 in the nation out of 161 schools for graduates practicing in rural areas. 

How has TCOM improved in rankings through the years? 

TCOM has shown consistent improvement through the years. In 2022, TCOM was 36th among all medical schools across the country for primary care. Certainly, this is a significant rise from 57th in 2021 and 72nd in 2020.

TCOM’s commitment to osteopathic medicine and its foundational principles has been a driving force behind its national recognition and success as a medical institution. Under the leadership of Dr. Frank Filipetto, the college has fostered a culture that prioritizes the tenets of osteopathic medicine, setting it apart as a distinguished institution in medical education.

At the heart of TCOM’s success is its devotion to the principles of osteopathic medicine. The college’s courses are devoted to the holistic approach of treating patients in order to integrate the whole being of body, mind and spirit. By viewing patients in this comprehensive light, TCOM graduates are equipped to provide whole-person care that extends beyond treating symptoms to addressing the root causes of health issues.

Through comprehensive training in manipulative medicine, TCOM students learn hands-on techniques to complement conventional medical treatments and promote the body’s self-healing abilities. Specifically, this approach aligns with the osteopathic philosophy of supporting the body’s inherent capacity for healing and self-regulation.

TCOM’s commitment to osteopathic medicine extends beyond its educational programs. For example, the college actively promotes research and evidence-based practices within the field. This contributes to advancements in osteopathic medicine and its integration into mainstream health care. In conclusion, this focus on research ensures that TCOM stays at the forefront of medical knowledge and continuously improves its educational offerings.

The whole-health approach at TCOM is one reason it stands out as the best medical school in Texas

By equipping its students with the necessary tools to deliver osteopathic primary care, TCOM empowers its graduates to meet the evolving health care needs of patients. The college’s focus on primary care education addresses the demand for physicians in these essential roles, particularly in underserved and rural areas where access to primary care is often limited.

The emphasis on primary care aligns with the broader health care landscape’s shift toward preventive and patient-centered care models. TCOM’s graduates are well-prepared to provide personalized care that prioritizes patient well-being and emphasizes building strong patient-physician relationships.

This commitment to excellence in osteopathic primary care has not gone unnoticed. TCOM’s devotion to the principles of osteopathic medicine and its focus on producing well-rounded, compassionate health care professionals have earned the college recognition as the best medical school in Texas. This recognition serves as a testament to TCOM’s status as a leader in medical education and its positive impact on health care in the state.

In conclusion, TCOM’s commitment to osteopathic medicine and its foundational principles have positioned it as a nationally recognized institution. Under the leadership of Dr. Frank Filipetto, the college has created an educational environment that prepares students to provide holistic, patient-centered osteopathic primary care. This focus on excellence and whole-person care has given TCOM recognition as the best medical school in Texas for primary care, highlighting its significant contributions to medical education and health care delivery in the state and beyond.

What is TCOM’s rank in terms of primary care production?

The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine has achieved significant recognition for its exceptional contributions to primary care production, as evidenced by its impressive ranking as the No. 10 medical school in the nation for producing primary care practitioners. This ranking is based on the number of TCOM graduates from 2014 to 2016 who chose to pursue careers in primary care fields. For example:

• Family medicine
• Internal medicine
• Pediatrics
• And also Obstetrics and Gynecology

TCOM’s commitment to primary care education and its focus on producing well-taught doctors who prioritize patient care have been key in achieving this prestigious ranking. Particularly, the college’s curriculum includes specialized training and hands-on experiences in primary care settings, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in these vital health care roles.

The rise in TCOM’s primary care production ranking through the years reflects the institution’s devotion to continually enhancing its programs and fostering a culture that values the significance of primary care in health care delivery. Graduates of TCOM’s primary care programs are well-prepared to meet the diverse health care needs of patients, particularly in underserved and rural areas where access to primary care services is crucial.

One of the factors contributing to TCOM’s growth and recognition in the field of primary care is the college’s passion to the osteopathic whole-health approach. This unique approach emphasizes the holistic understanding of patients as dynamic entities comprising interconnected body, mind and spirit components. By prioritizing holistic care and personalized treatment plans, TCOM graduates are equipped to address the root causes of health issues. In addition, they are able to provide comprehensive care that considers the broader context of a patient’s life and well-being.

The whole-health approach at TCOM is one reason it stands out as the best medical school in Texas

The osteopathic whole-health approach not only enables TCOM graduates to build strong patient-physician relationships but also enhances their ability to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to patients’ health challenges. This comprehensive approach resonates with many medical practitioners and patients, contributing to the increased recognition of TCOM as a leading institution in osteopathic medicine and primary care education.

As TCOM continues to thrive and expand its influence in primary care production, the college remains committed to nurturing future doctors who embody the principles of osteopathic medicine and are passionate about making a positive impact on patient health and well-being. The combination of high-quality medical education, commitment to primary care and the osteopathic whole-health approach sets TCOM apart. As a result, TCOM graduates continue to positively influence the health care landscape by prioritizing holistic, patient-centered care.

The impressive statistic of 62% of TCOM’s Class of 2023 students matching in primary care reflects the college’s devotion to producing health care professionals committed to serving in essential primary care fields. This significant percentage of graduates choosing primary care specialties demonstrates TCOM’s success in instilling the value of comprehensive, patient-centered care in its students.

The focus on primary care at TCOM aligns with the growing recognition and evidence supporting the benefits of a whole-health care approach. As medical research continues to reveal the interconnectedness of various aspects of health, including physical, mental and emotional well-being, the value of providing holistic care becomes increasingly evident. TCOM’s focus on the osteopathic whole-health approach places it at the forefront of medical education, equipping students with the tools to address patients’ health needs in a comprehensive manner.

Whole health care focuses on understanding patients as individuals with unique backgrounds, lifestyles and health challenges. By considering the entirety of a patient’s well-being, TCOM graduates are better equipped to identify underlying issues that may impact health outcomes and design tailored treatment plans that promote long-term well-being. Moreover, this approach to care not only helps address immediate health concerns but also aims to prevent and manage chronic conditions effectively.

The whole-health approach at TCOM is one reason it stands out as the best medical school in Texas

Moreover, primary care plays a vital role in promoting overall population health. By focusing on prevention, early intervention and continuity of care, primary care practitioners can reduce health care disparities, improve health outcomes and contribute to a healthier community. As TCOM graduates enter the primary care workforce, they become agents of positive change, fostering healthier communities and making a meaningful impact on patients’ lives.

TCOM’s commitment to training primary care providers has far-reaching implications beyond the immediate community. As health care systems worldwide face challenges related to access, affordability and quality of care, primary care becomes a cornerstone for building robust and sustainable health care infrastructures. TCOM’s focus on primary care production contributes to addressing these challenges and reinforcing the importance of primary care as a foundation for a strong health care system.

The Class of 2023’s impressive matching percentage in primary care further solidifies TCOM’s reputation as a leading institution for producing doctors dedicated to whole health care and serving in critical primary care roles. As this trend continues, TCOM’s graduates will continue to contribute positively to the health care landscape, promoting healthier communities and shaping the future of patient-centered care.

In conclusion, TCOM’s success in producing primary care practitioners reflects its commitment to the osteopathic whole-health approach and the recognition that comprehensive care leads to healthier lives. As the college continues to prioritize primary care education, its graduates are poised to make a significant impact on health care delivery and population health. This aligns with the global shift toward patient-centered, holistic care.

Graduates from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth don’t only become primary care providers. Also, they practice a variety of specialties

For example, some of the fields TCOM graduates commonly enter include:

• Family Medicine.
• Internal Medicine.
• Pediatrics.
• Obstetrics and Gynecology.
• Psychiatry.
• General Surgery.
• Emergency Medicine.
• Neurology.
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
• Psychiatry.
• Radiology.
• Urology.
• Anesthesiology.
• Dermatology.
• Orthopedic Surgery.
• Geriatrics.
• Neurological Surgery.
• Child Neurology.
• Diagnostic Radiology.
• Ophthalmology.
• Pediatrics Emergency Medicine.
• Pediatrics Medical Genetics.
• Integrated Vascular Surgery.
• Internal Medicine – Pediatrics.
• Internal Medicine – Psychiatry.
• Family Medicine – ONMM and Pathology.

U.S. News & World Report determines its ranking based on several factors.  Here are its guidelines:

• U.S. News surveyed 192 fully accredited medical and osteopathic schools for its 2023-2024 ratings.
• The 2023 survey ranked 130 schools for research and 123 for primary care.
• U.S. News did use data from schools that didn’t join in for a full review.
• Schools not giving data for two years got no rank.
• Schools with provisional (i.e. preliminary or pre-accreditation) status in mid-winter 2023 were unranked.

U.S. News offered two sets of rankings. One ranking was for research. The other ranking was for primary care.

• Research Rankings:
  • Based on research activity
  • Makes up 45% of the total score
  • It is also based on the total federal research activity and grants per faculty member.
• Primary Care Rankings:
  • Based on primary care production
  • Makes up 50% of the score
  • Includes the proportion of a school’s graduates practicing in primary care specialties
  • And also the percentages of graduates entering primary care residencies

For both rankings:

• Qualitative assessment – (25% of the score.) Includes opinions of medical schools
• Student selectivity – (15% of the score) Reflects the academic accomplishments of students
• Faculty resources. And also measuring faculty productivity
  • Contributes 15% to the research ranking
  • And 10% to the primary care ranking

Finally, these indicators are standardized, weighted, totaled and rescaled for numerical rankings.

Please note that the methods and weights assigned to each category may be subject to change. Because of this, it’s advisable to check the latest U.S. News & World Report’s method page for the most current information.

Several studies and trends demonstrate the growth and recognition of the osteopathic whole-health approach:

• Increasing number of osteopathic medical schools: The growth of osteopathic medicine has been evident in the increasing number of osteopathic medical schools in the U.S. Through the years, the number of colleges of osteopathic medicine has expanded. As a result, more students can pursue osteopathic medical education and training.
• Rising number of D.O. physicians: The number of licensed osteopathic physicians has been steadily increasing, reflecting the growing acceptance and recognition of osteopathic medicine within the medical community and patients. Every year, there are more than 7,000 osteopathic doctors that enter the workforce. As a matter of fact, that is 77% higher than it was 10 years ago.
• Inclusion in mainstream health care: Osteopathic medicine has become more integrated into the mainstream health care system. Presently, D.O.s are commonly found in various health care settings. This includes:
  • Hospitals.
  • Clinics
  • Private practice
  • And also academic institutions

D.O. degrees offer more options to better health care

• Osteopathic principles are being added into mainstream medicine: Allopathic (M.D.) physicians and other healthcare professionals have incorporated some osteopathic principles into their practices. For example:
  • The importance of holistic patient care.
  • And also the body’s self-healing capabilities.
• Research on Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: OMT, a distinctive feature of osteopathic medicine, has gained attention in the medical research community. Several studies have explored the efficacy of OMT in treating various conditions, including:
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Migraines
  • And also respiratory illness
• Public awareness and patient demand: Patients are increasingly seeking out osteopathic doctors because of the osteopathic whole-health approach. As public awareness of osteopathic medicine grows, patient demand for this approach has increased.
• Osteopathic integration in specialty fields: Osteopathic doctors have made significant contributions in various medical specialties, including:
  • Primary care
  • Family medicine
  • Sports medicine and more

It’s important to note that the field of medicine and health care is constantly evolving, and research and trends may continue to shift. However, the whole-health approach is one of the reasons TCOM the best medical school for primary care in Texas.

Admission to the best medical schools in Texas, such as the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, is highly competitive. Applicants who are considered the most competitive typically have the following characteristics:

• Bachelor’s degree: Most applicants have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. However, TCOM may accept students who have completed a certain number of undergraduate credits if they haven’t completed a degree.
• Prerequisite courses: Applicants need to complete certain prerequisite courses in English, statistics, biology, chemistry, and physics. More competitive applicants have also completed courses in biochemistry, physiology, or anatomy.
• Test scores: TCOM requires the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for admission.
• Letters of recommendation: Applicants need to submit a health professions advisory committee (HPAC) letter or letters of recommendation from professors, physicians, employers or other individuals who can speak to their qualifications and suitability for medical school.
• Experience: TCOM often looks for applicants with some experience in the medical field. This could be through volunteer work, shadowing, research or paid work.
• Interview: Each year, a limited number of applicants are invited to interview for admission.

For TCOM applicants, it is important to also have a demonstrated interest in osteopathic medicine. Such as shadowing a D.O. or other relevant experiences.

How are applicants admitted at TCOM?

The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine uses a holistic approach to evaluate applications for admission. Applicants who are recommended for admission by the admissions committee is scored in three domains: Academic Qualifications, Personal (humanistic) Development, and Diverse Experiences. All of which align with TCOM’s mission.

• Academic Qualifications (Metrics): The academic qualifications domain assesses the applicant’s record of academic and scholarly activity completed to prepare for the curriculum offered at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. In addition to course work and test scores, the committee evaluates the applicant’s ability to develop competency in scientific, social science and health care systems concepts, manage significant demands both in and out of the classroom, and the capacity for improvement.
• Personal (Humanistic) Development:  The personal development domain assesses applicant’s activities, and interests in preparation for a career as an osteopathic physician.  Activities should demonstrate consistent and sincere interest to serve others in a career in medicine.  The applicant should be able to explain how these experiences have enhanced one’s ability to understand the nature of medical practice.  Personal development also refers to the extent the applicant expresses self-awareness and recognizes the socioemotional dynamics of the doctor-patient relationship.  As a part of this domain, the applicant is also assessed on those behaviors that reflect the values of the University of North Texas System. 
• Diverse Experiences: The diverse experiences domain examines the applicant’s path to osteopathic medicine and the how it relates to TCOM’s mission to enroll a diverse class. These experiences include circumstances where an applicant has demonstrated the ability to overcome challenges or engage in experiential learning through socially diverse opportunities. Experiences may also indicate acquired qualities that will prove to be beneficial in medical training such as resilience and cultural competence. This domain also examines how these experiences will enhance the learning of others.

• TCOM is the oldest osteopathic medical school in Texas. Osteopathic medicine subscribes to a whole-health approach of body, mind and spirit. Dr. A.T. Still is the founder of osteopathic medicine. He started the first school of osteopathy in 1892 in Missouri.
• It wasn’t until 1967 that D.O.s were first recognized by the military medical corps by their incorporation into the doctor draft. This recognition by a government entity opened the way for a more holistic approach to health care.
• The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine offered its first degree shortly after in 1970.
• Many other  medical schools in Texas recently adopted a more holistic approach to health care by using some of the osteopathic principles. TCOM has been teaching these same principles since 1970. Over time, these principles were then adopted to all of HSC.
• TCOM works with other schools to share its teaching methods. This helps make learning better across all medical schools. It also helps improve health care in the community and across the world. The goal is to build a network of medical professionals who understand patient care fully. This way, everyone works together to create healthier lives for all.

The four tenets of osteopathic medicine are principles that guide the approach and practice of D.O.s. They are:

• • The body is a unit: The person is a unit of body, mind and spirit. This tenet’s main focus is that all systems in the body are connected. In addition, people’s physical health is influenced by their mental and emotional well-being. This underscores the holistic approach to patient care in osteopathic medicine.
  • The body is capable of self regulation, self healing and health maintenance. This principle recognizes the body’s ability to heal and maintain itself. Osteopathic medicine aims to support and enhance these natural processes.
  • Structure and function are related. This principle asserts that the structure of the body can affect its function and vice versa. For example, a misalignment in the spine (structural issue) can also lead to health problems such as chronic pain or digestive issues (functional problems).
  • Rational treatment is based upon an understanding of the basic principles of body unity, self regulation and the interrelationship of structure and function. This tenet guides osteopathic physicians in their approach to treatment. Instead of focusing solely on the symptoms, they seek to understand and address the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction. Therefore, they consider all aspects of the patient’s health and well-being.

In conclusion, these four tenets influence the osteopathic approach to patient care. They are also what can distinguish D.O.s from their fellow M.D.s.

The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth has had a reputation for excellence in medical education.

TCOM was founded in 1970 as an independent, nonprofit school. In 1975, TCOM became part of North Texas State University, now the University of North Texas. In 1993, the College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences was established. To that end, this marked the beginning of TCOM’s expansion into a graduate university with multiple colleges and degree options. Shortly after, the name was changed to The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. As a result, TCOM garners praise for actively training physicians with expertise in primary care, rural medicine and manipulative medicine. The American Osteopathic Association has accredited its programs.

TCOM’s faculty members have a broad range of expertise in order to provide students with a powerful education in medical science and clinical skills. The college also has emphasized training physicians to serve rural and underserved populations. This therefore aligns with its philosophy of treating the whole person, not just symptoms.

In recent years, TCOM has made great strides in research, becoming a leader in aging and Alzheimer’s disease research. In 2023, it was ranked the best medical school in Texas for primary care by U.S. News & World Report.

TCOM’s mission is to create solutions for a healthier community by preparing tomorrow’s patient-centered physicians and scientists. Thus advancing the continuum of medical knowledge, discovery, and osteopathic health care and to change the way health care is delivered.

Therefore, these developments, alongside other achievements, have propelled TCOM’s reputation and rankings.