An osteopathic family physician is a physician whose training and experience qualify him or her to practice in the fields of medicine and surgery, and who is able to accept the total continuing responsibility of the patient and/or family as a whole, as their physician and medical advisor.

Osteopathic family physicians assume the responsibility of the patient’s comprehensive and continued healthcare, and act as coordinators of their patients’ health services.

Osteopathic family physicians may devote particular attention to one or more fields of specialty practice, and recognize the need for utilizing qualified consultant for their professional expertise.