CHSU Discovery

Abstract

• Osteopathic medicine (OMM) is a hands-on, holistic approach focused
on the body's self-healing abilities and the relationship between
structure and function.
• DOs are fully licensed physicians trained in both standard medical care
and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).
• Despite its effectiveness, OMM remains underutilized and poorly
understood by the public.
• Fresno County, a medically underserved area, has limited access to
healthcare providers and a growing need for physician education and
outreach.
• CHSU-COM, established in 2020, is the first osteopathic medical school
in the Central Valley, aiming to address regional healthcare disparities.
• This study assesses community awareness of osteopathic medicine
and CHSU-COM to inform strategies that enhance public
understanding and utilization of OMM.