DOs receive unwanted robocalls from company urging them to consider an MD degree

In recent weeks, several DOs have reported receiving robocalls from a company that specializes in connecting DOs with overseas medical schools from which they can earn an MD degree. The robocall—and the company—imply that DOs would benefit professionally from doing so, despite the fact that in the U.S., DOs and MDs enjoy virtually all of the same rights and privileges.

“There is no need for a DO graduate to get a secondary MD degree,” says Carolyn W. Quist, DO, chair of the Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists. “The federal government has accepted our schools and degrees. Most large medical groups are happy to accept DOs into their fold as they know we are trained well.”

Dr. Quist has received multiple robocalls from this company. She notes that in her own career, her DO degree has never stopped her from accomplishing her professional goals.

“I have practiced in the same city I trained in for 33 years, working at three hospitals, two of which are considered MD hospitals,” she says. “I have never had any problem getting on the staff, nor had an insurance company deny my application because of the degree I carry. I have been chair of hospital specialty departments as well as on executive committees over my career. I was always treated with respect.

“I have participated in research studies by pharmaceutical companies equivalent to anyone else working on the project. I have trained COM students, residents, PA students and NP students. I have never been questioned as to my expertise in practicing my specialty in these situations either. Most of my patients tell me they appreciate osteopathic physicians because we treat the whole person, get to know them and take all aspects of their personal life into consideration when coming up with a treatment plan.”

In rare cases when DOs encounter opportunities that specify that an MD degree is required or preferred, the AOA works to advocate for policy changes, Dr. Quist notes.

Dealing with unwanted robocalls

In the U.S., most robocalls can not only be a nuisance, but can also be illegal under certain circumstances.  If you received robocalls that were unwanted or potentially deceiving, there are a few options available to protect yourself.

According to Keith Keogh of Keogh Law Ltd, a consumer protection attorney who handles robocall lawsuits on behalf of consumers, “first, you should register your number with the federal Do Not Call List.” You can do that at donotcall.gov. If the calls persist, ask to be placed on the company’s internal “do not call” list and consider reaching out to a consumer protection attorney if you are still receiving unwanted calls.

It is also useful to submit a complaint to the FCC and the FTC.  Complaints to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can be made via the FTC website.  Complaints to the Federal Communications Commission can be made via the FCC website. Reporting the calls may help to stop them as they can help these federal agencies work with phone companies and other partners to block such calls.

Reporting may also help law enforcement identify the people who are making these potentially illegal calls. When reporting, it is best to have handy the number that received the call, the number on your caller ID (even if you believe that number might be fake), any number you are told to call back and the exact date and time of the call.

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