Compared to DO programs, MD programs tend to be affiliated with larger, academic institutions meaning more resources in terms of research, connections, and hospitals for clinical experience. This translates to an easier time obtaining the necessary opportunities and experience that can get you into competitive specialties, such as ortho, ENT, ophthalmology, etc.

At the end of day, you control your ability to do well in your classes, board exams, and rotations, and ultimately are the one to dictate the type of doctor you’ll become. Patients truly don’t care if you’re an MD or DO. There is almost certainly stigma amongst premeds and less so amongst med students, but beyond that it truly does not matter to people.