Why Accreditation Matters for International Medical Students
If you’re considering a career in healthcare, you’ve likely encountered several degree options: Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), and Physician Assistant (PA). While all three are essential to modern healthcare teams, they differ in education, philosophy, scope of practice, and career flexibility.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right path for your goals—and if you’re leaning toward becoming a fully licensed physician, the MD degree may offer the broadest opportunities. Let’s break down what sets each role apart.
What is an MD?
An MD (Doctor of Medicine) practices allopathic medicine, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases using traditional scientific approaches such as medications, surgery, and other interventions. MDs are fully licensed physicians who can practice in any medical specialty.
Training Path:
- 4 years of medical school
- 3–7 years of residency, length of time differs based on chosen specialty
- Must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
MDs are qualified to prescribe medication, perform surgery, and manage complex patient cases independently.
What is a DO?
A DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) is also a fully licensed physician. The key difference is that DOs receive additional training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)—a hands-on approach used to diagnose and treat conditions through physical manipulation of the musculoskeletal system.
Key Differences in DO Training:
- DOs complete 4 years of medical school at an osteopathic college
- Receive 200+ extra hours in OMT
- Take the COMLEX-USA licensing exam (though many also take the USMLE to broaden residency options)
- Often emphasize a holistic, patient-centered approach to care
While DOs can pursue any specialty, a larger percentage tend to enter primary care, especially in rural and underserved communities.
What is a PA?
A Physician Assistant (PA) is a licensed medical professional who works under the supervision of a physician (MD or DO). PAs can diagnose illnesses, prescribe medication, assist in surgeries, and deliver patient care across a range of specialties.
PA Training Overview:
- Most complete a 2-3 year Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies
- Must pass the PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
- Training includes didactic education and clinical rotations but does not require a residency
PAs enjoy flexibility to switch specialties during their careers but do not practice independently and must always work in collaboration with a supervising physician.
MD vs. DO vs. PA Comparison
Here’s a look at how these paths compare across key factors including salary, training, and job growth:
| Category | MD | DO | PA |
| Median U.S. Salary |
$229,300+ (varies by specialty) |
~$220,000+ (similar to MDs) |
$126,000 |
| Education Required | 4 years med school + 3–7 years residency | 4 years med school + 3–7 years residency | 2–3 years PA program (Master’s level) |
| Licensing Exams | USMLE Steps 1–3 | COMLEX-USA (optionally USMLE) | PANCE |
| Work-Life Balance | Demanding during training; varies by specialty | Generally better in primary care fields | Generally excellent; flexible shifts |
| Job Growth (2022–32) | 3% (steady) | 5%+ (especially in primary care) | 27% (much faster than average) |
| Career Flexibility | Highest (any specialty, global practice) | High, though slightly less recognized globally | High (easy to switch specialties, but limited autonomy) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medscape Physician Compensation Report 2024
Which Path is Right for You?
Choosing between an MD, DO, and PA depends on your goals, interests, and how you envision your future in healthcare.
You may prefer the MD path if:
- You want to pursue a surgical or highly specialized field
- You’re interested in research or academic medicine
- You want full autonomy and global recognition
- You’re committed to long-term training in return for high career flexibility and income
You may prefer the DO path if:
- You’re passionate about holistic care
- You see yourself working in primary care or rural health settings
- You want to include hands-on, physical therapy-style techniques in your care
You may prefer the PA path if:
- You want a faster route to patient care
- You prefer working as part of a team under physician supervision
- You value work-life balance and flexible career movement across specialties
Why Choose Xavier University School of Medicine
If your goal is to become a fully licensed physician with the freedom to work in any specialty, anywhere in the world, the MD degree remains the most recognized and versatile path.
At Xavier University in Aruba, we offer:
- A U.S.-modeled, four-year MD program, with a 5-year Pre-Health program option
- U.S.-based clinical rotations at ACGME-affiliated hospitals
- Fully accredited by ACCM
- USMLE-focused curriculum and academic support
- Affordable tuition and small class sizes
- Rolling admissions with start dates in January, May, and September
With a commitment to producing highly skilled, compassionate doctors, Xavier gives you the tools to match into competitive residencies and launch a successful medical career.
Start Your Journey Toward Becoming a Physician Today
While DOs and PAs play vital roles in healthcare, an MD degree offers unmatched flexibility, leadership potential, and long-term earning power. At Xavier, you’ll receive a high-quality medical education in a supportive, internationally respected setting.
