As part of a larger study of the success and problems of women as applicants to and students in the schools of eight health professions, the study of osteopathic medicine involved interviews with administrators, faculty, and medical students. Its central purpose was to identify any characteristics of the profession--in its history, organization, and any other important features--that might contribute to an understanding of the role and status of women in it, and the barriers faced by women in the profession's schools. An introduction to the profession of osteopathy gives a sense of its history, work, focus, organization, and women's status in it. Included in addition are a short set of recommendations for the schools and associations, and direct quotes from the interview, giving a vivid description of some of the unique problems encountered by women in osteopathy. Some statistical tables are included. (MSE)