Introduction
A.T. Still University (ATSU) holds a unique and foundational place in American medical history as the birthplace of osteopathic medicine. Founded in 1892 by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, ATSU’s commitment to whole-person healthcare, community service, and innovation continues to make it a leading institution in medical education. With campuses in Kirksville, Missouri, and Mesa, Arizona, ATSU offers a wide range of health sciences programs, but it is most notably home to two prestigious osteopathic medical schools: the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM) and the School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (SOMA).
History and Legacy of Osteopathic Medicine
Dr. Andrew Taylor Still revolutionized the field of medicine in the late 19th century by founding osteopathic medicine, a philosophy that emphasizes the interrelationship of the body’s systems and the body’s ability to heal itself. Frustrated with the ineffectiveness and harmful practices of traditional medicine at the time, Still promoted a holistic approach that incorporated manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system to support the body’s natural healing processes.
This groundbreaking idea led to the establishment of the first school of osteopathic medicine in 1892, now known as A.T. Still University – Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM). ATSU’s heritage as the founding institution of osteopathic medicine has earned it widespread respect and recognition within the healthcare community.
Campuses and Programs
1. Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM)
Located in Kirksville, Missouri, KCOM is the original osteopathic medical school in the world. The program focuses on training primary care physicians, with a curriculum that blends rigorous medical science with hands-on osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). KCOM students begin clinical experiences early in their training, emphasizing rural and underserved communities.
Key features of KCOM:
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Strong emphasis on primary care and rural health
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Comprehensive training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM)
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State-of-the-art simulation centers and anatomy labs
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Legacy of innovation and leadership in osteopathic education
2. School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (SOMA)
Established in 2007 in Mesa, Arizona, ATSU-SOMA offers a progressive, community-focused approach to medical education. It utilizes a unique 1+3 model: students spend the first year on campus in Arizona and the remaining three years embedded in community health centers across the country. This model allows students to work directly with underserved populations and gain practical clinical experience early in their training.
Distinctive aspects of SOMA:
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Early clinical exposure through the community campus model
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Partnerships with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
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Focus on social determinants of health and health equity
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Integration of public health training into the medical curriculum
Osteopathic Philosophy in Practice
ATSU’s osteopathic medical schools integrate the core tenets of osteopathy throughout their curricula:
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The body is a unit; the person is a unity of body, mind, and spirit.
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The body is capable of self-regulation, self-healing, and health maintenance.
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Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated.
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Rational treatment is based on understanding these principles.
These principles guide the education and practice of ATSU graduates, who are trained to treat the whole person, not just symptoms. The incorporation of OMT techniques further equips physicians to diagnose and treat a wide array of conditions without relying solely on medications or surgeries.
Commitment to Underserved Communities
A cornerstone of ATSU’s mission is improving access to care in medically underserved areas. Both KCOM and SOMA emphasize training doctors who are committed to community service, particularly in rural, minority, and economically disadvantaged populations. Through partnerships with community health centers and rural hospitals, ATSU ensures its students understand the unique challenges and opportunities of working in these environments.
Research and Innovation
While rooted in tradition, ATSU remains forward-thinking in its approach to healthcare education and research. The university supports research in osteopathic principles, clinical outcomes, public health, and educational innovation. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects and scholarly activities that contribute to the advancement of medicine and public health.
Interdisciplinary Education
ATSU fosters a collaborative learning environment that includes multiple health professions. In addition to its two osteopathic medical schools, the university offers degrees in dentistry, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, public health, audiology, and more. This interdisciplinary structure promotes teamwork and holistic approaches to patient care.
Alumni and Impact
Graduates of ATSU’s osteopathic medical schools are found across the United States and internationally, often in leadership roles in healthcare and education. Many alumni have become deans, clinical directors, researchers, and policymakers, advancing the principles of osteopathy and improving healthcare access and quality for underserved populations.
Conclusion
A.T. Still University stands as a testament to the enduring relevance and power of osteopathic medicine. With a legacy rooted in holistic care and an eye toward future innovation, ATSU continues to lead the way in shaping compassionate, skilled physicians ready to meet the complex needs of diverse populations. For students seeking a meaningful career in medicine with a strong foundation in whole-person care, ATSU’s osteopathic medical programs offer an unmatched educational experience.