Osteopathic schools are producing more graduates, but fewer are practicing in primary care.

The expansion of osteopathic medical schools was to be a boon for underserved areas in need of primary care service. However, the impact has thus far been diminished by the decrease in osteopathic graduates engaged in primary care practice. Policy makers and leaders should consider strategies for maintaining a proud tradition of primary care production in a time of looming primary care physician shortage.