A study in the journal Virus Research found osteopathic manipulative treatment improved immune response to COVID-19 vaccination and reduced the severity and duration of breakthrough infections. "For physicians, what we tried to show was that a short, simple intervention could give their patients an improved response that might translate into better effect for at-risk patients or better effect for people who might have more significant response to an infection," said researcher Brian Loveless, DO, a professor at the Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific.

The D'Youville University College of Osteopathic Education has received pre-accreditation and will become the first new medical school in Western New York in nearly 200 years, admitting students in the fall of 2026. The program will focus on whole-person care, early clinical experience and cultural competency, with a particular focus on serving rural and underserved populations. "Receiving pre-accreditation is the culmination of years of planning and collaboration by our university and community partners," founding Dean Dr. Shawn Cannon, DO, said.

Touro University California has reopened Truett Hall after a $7 million renovation, creating a central hub for student learning and services. The 33,000-square-foot facility features advanced labs and tech-enabled learning spaces. "More than just a renovation, Truett Hall symbolizes our investment in students and faculty alike," said Dr. Tami Hendriksz, DO, campus provost, chief academic officer and dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine. Truett Hall includes advanced labs for osteopathic manipulative medicine, physical diagnosis and ultrasound.

The Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine's new campus at the Florida Institute of Technology is helping to address a physician shortage in Florida. The partnership allows Burrell students to use Florida Tech facilities and includes a pathway to admission for qualified Florida Tech students. BCOM President John Hummer, MHA, called the partnership a "win-win," saying "we're not just coexisting, we’re growing together."

A patient panel on amyloidosis at the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine helped medical students understand the challenges of diagnosing rare diseases. "Part of today's presentation is to give you a better understanding of how amyloidosis presents in patients and why earlier recognition is so important. Opportunities like this help prepare you not only for your exams, but for real patients you'll encounter in practice," said George Borrelli, DO, chair of clinical integration at CCOM.

Medical students and clinicians from the Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine presented 35 research posters at the annual meeting of the North Carolina Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Medicine Physicians. Topics included age-friendly care and osteopathic manipulative therapy for anxiety and depression.

More than 500 members of the osteopathic medical education community engaged with Congress for AACOM’s Advocacy Day. “Advocacy Day has an impressive track record of driving congressional change, and we expect this year to be no different,” said AACOM President and CEO Robert A. Cain, DO. Read more.

Throughout September, AACOM is elevating the voices of women in the osteopathic community for Women in Medicine Month. Lindsay Wagner, OMS I, reflects on the women who paved the way in medicine; Kelly Reed, DO, FAAD, FACMS, FAOCD, shares her experiences overcoming bias and the power of mentorship; and Ayanda Chantelle Mkhize, OMS II, discusses her journey to self-advocacy as a future physician. You can also follow AACOM's Instagram for daily takeovers where community members share their experiences, insights and stories.

Honor and celebrate Women in Medicine Month and beyond by enjoying these books recommended by the osteopathic medical education community.

You'll also read about NYITCOM securing federal research grants, CUSOM's new course for parents of newborns and WesternU/COMP researchers' study of OMT's effect on vaccines. Read more.