Nephrology: A Case Study

The tenants of osteopathic medicine make nephrology and osteopathic medicine a natural fit. While candidates for nephrology fellowship programs historically came from large academic institutions, the number of osteopathic internists, many of whom have traditionally trained in community-based hospitals, is on the rise. Osteopathic physicians have traditionally been drawn to primary care careers because it aligns well with the unique osteopathic principles. Nephrology offers a similar avenue to continue to practice these principles. The kidney is interrelated to many other systems in the body, it has the capability of self-healing and nephrologists often look toward systems outside the kidney to find answers. In addition, it is not surprising to hear that a nephrologist might be compelled to perform OMM to allow for the removal of NSAIDs to prevent harm to the kidney and allow for a discussion to explore other options for pain control. The additional OMM training coupled with osteopathic principles results in a more eclectic candidate that offers a greater diversity to any training program. As such, patient care is enhanced through the benefit of a broadened view of patient care.