The New York Times wrote that “Rules on the use of ‘Dr.’ in particular can lead to confusion, for readers and unfortunately sometimes for our writers. Here’s our stylebook entry: Dr. should be used in all references for physicians, dentists and veterinarians his practice is their primary current occupation….”
The Times is onto something here.
I believe it’s harder than ever for patients to know the qualifications and training of individuals involved in their medical care and treatment. Just as the Times style guide still requires, there was a time when, in medicine, society had a general understanding that the term “Dr.” referred to a physician. Now, there are myriad meanings.
Sure, “Dr.” still means physician. But it has alternative meanings, too, now.
With doctoral-level programs in other fields, some people who have earned such degrees use the title of “Dr.” as part of their health care practice.
• Doctor of nurse practitioner (DNP)
• Doctor of physician assistant (DMsc)
• Doctor of physical therapy (DPT)
• Doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP)
Are you confused yet?
People who've gone through the effort to earn advanced degrees understandably want that recognition and respect. On the other hand, the physician community has started to push back, arguing that the use of the word “Dr.” by non-physician medical or health practitioners is confusing and misleads patients.
I think it’s great when health care providers of all types choose to further their education and training, including earning terminal or doctoral degrees. I draw the line, though, when people use job titles or honorifics that are deceptive to patients and consumers.
So, too, does the State of Indiana. Eric Holcomb, the governor of Indiana, recently signed into law Senate Bill 239, which becomes effective on July 1, 2022.
The new Indiana law prohibits anyone who is not a physician from using medical specialty titles or designations, including terms such as anesthesiologist, cardiologist, or dermatologist. The legislation also bans health care providers from using deceptive or misleading advertising that misrepresents or falsely describes their education, background, and skills.
As a patient and consumer, you have the right to ask questions about the education, training, and preparation of any healthcare provider, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.
Just because a person introduces himself or herself as “Dr.,” don’t take for granted that the person is a fully trained physician, or even a physician at all. Some physicians are still completing their clinical training, as residents or fellows. If you have concern about their medical decision-making, you have the right to ask to be evaluated by a fully trained attending physician.
Additionally, as we have discussed above, some people go by the title “Dr.” but aren’t physicians, and instead have earned doctoral-level degrees in other fields. You have the right to request to be evaluated and treated by a physician. Of course, you also have the right to request to be evaluated and treated by a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) instead of a physician.
I think we’re at a place in society where patients need to ask questions ensure they’re truly giving informed consent for healthcare, including having an understanding of the education and qualifications of the individuals providing their care.
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