Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) is the representative member organization for the over 78,000 osteopathic medical physicians (D.O.s) in the United States. The organization promotes public health, encourages academic scientific research, serves as the primary certifying body for D.O.s overseeing 18 certifying boards, is the accrediting agency for osteopathic medical schools through its Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation, and has federal authority to accredit hospitals and other health care facilities.The AOA's mission is to advance the philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine by promoting excellence in education, research, and the delivery of quality, cost-effective healthcare.