Organizations which certify physicians and dentists as specialists in various fields of medical and dental practice.

Licensed physicians trained in OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE. An osteopathic physician, also known as D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy), is able to perform surgery and prescribe medications.

A medical discipline that is based on the philosophy that all body systems are interrelated and dependent upon one another for good health. This philosophy, developed in 1874 by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, recognizes the concept of "wellness" and the importance of treating illness within the context of the whole body. Special attention is placed on the MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM.

Compliance with a set of standards defined by non-governmental organizations. Certification is applied for by individuals on a voluntary basis and represents a professional status when achieved, e.g., certification for a medical specialty.

The granting of a license to practice medicine.

The group in which legal authority is vested for the control of health-related institutions and organizations.

The capability to perform acceptably those duties directly related to patient care.

The art and science of studying, performing research on, preventing, diagnosing, and treating disease, as well as the maintenance of health.

An occupation limited in scope to a subsection of a broader field.

Various branches of surgical practice limited to specialized areas.

Selection of a type of occupation or profession.

Various branches of dental practice limited to specialized areas.

Various branches of nursing practice limited to specialized areas.