Embracing osteopathic medicine and principles is a valued strength of Altoona Family Physicians. With 30 years of dedication by our faculty, our osteopathic recognition program stands out as a premier option for residency.
Program Growth and Recognition
Program Growth and Recognition: Initially established as an accredited AOA internship program in the 1990s, our program achieved ACGME osteopathic recognition in 2018. Currently, it features six full-time osteopathic faculty members committed to enhancing our residents’ expertise in Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy (OMT).
Curriculum Overview
Our curriculum aims to provide practical OMT techniques for addressing various conditions, including headaches, back pain, sinusitis, and pneumonia. A recent survey indicated that 47% of our program graduates regularly incorporate OMT into their practices.
Hands-On Workshops
We hold monthly 1.5-hour workshops that guide residents through prevalent musculoskeletal and visceral somatic issues encountered in family medicine. These small group sessions, led by osteopathic faculty, help residents build confidence in their OMT abilities. Our clinic is also equipped with five OMT rooms featuring adjustable tables and a teaching skeleton.
Special Programs
OMM services are available at prenatal care clinics. We host an annual full-day OMT grand round with guest speakers. Each spring, faculty conduct an OMT mock practical to prepare residents for the ACOFP board exam, proudly maintaining a 100% pass rate on the practical.