Why do doctors always introduce themselves as Dr. instead of Mr. or just their name?

Question

I guess it's just an ego thing, but other professionals don't do this as a rule. Just bugs me to no end.

Answer 1

I know that when I graduate this November with my doctorate, I will want everyone to call me doctor. Basically, I've spent 9 years in school, 3200+ hours in clinical training, and over $150,000 in tuition and books. I feel that I've earned it. It's not so that I can feel that I am better than everyone else or that I feel like I am better than everyone else. I just think its a small reward for all the hard work I've done.
However, when I work with patients after I get my doctorate, I will most likely ask them to refer to me by my first name. First, because I don't want them to think there is some kind of power struggle in the therapeutic relationship. Second, because my last name is a bear to pronounce.

My undergraduate college professors were all doctors, but we were encouraged to call them by their first names. They didn't want us to think that they were high and mighty and and as one professor said, "Don't ever call me Mrs. Mrs. is a possessive title!"

Answer 2

I don't know if this is a global phenomenon. Correct me if I'm wrong, brits, but aren't doctors referred to as Mr. or Ms. in England?

But personally, if I had gone through 4 yrs of college, 4yrs of medical school, an internship, and a residency just to be trained for my profession, I'd think I had earned the right to be called by the title.

Answer 3

Because it's cool to say Dr. Jones ( example) instead Mr. Jones thats why. Nah, because it's their profession to do so. Why would you say can I speak to Mr. Jones you address him as his professional name, Dr. Jones. Would you call your teacher by "Jill Anderson" instead her professional name as Mrs. Anderson.

And Yes for some it can be a ego thing. I'd feel pretty darn awesome If I was called Dr.xxxx!

Answer 4

By law a person can not call themselves "doctor" without actually being one. By introducing themselves as doctor they are implying they actually are one. It is for the patient's peace of mind.

Same thing for a contractor, architect, engineer and such. Also, considering the work they had to do to get their title, it is a sign of respect to them.

Answer 5

You're right - it's an ego trip. And it is even non-medical doctors. I know a techie who got his doctorate in infomation technology and introduces himself, and insists on being introduced as Doctor...

Answer 6

to establish who they are, how would you feel if I came in a waiting area to give you the status of your loved one and I say: "hey I'm Miss so and so and ...." you would look at me like I was crazy and you would also wonder who I am, right?
also, Doctors have to hold an air of authority because they have lives in their hands, it's like a way of convincing the patients that they have some sort of superiority(knowledge wise) over the let's say the janitor, Mr. so and so... get my drift?

Answer 7

If you attened medical school as long as they are required to -you would demand everyone call your Dr. too.
What about a judge, mayor, president or king of a country................ you surely don't call them Mr./Mrs............
You seem to be the one with an 'ego' issue - NOT THEM!!!

Answer 8

I guess it's for the recognition of many years of hard work that it takes to become a doctor.

Answer 9

It is their title,,just like Mr. If i went through all that expensive,intense shooling, and training, I would like to be recognizes a Doctor Crane,,,,,,,,,mmmmmmmm,,maybe I will go back to school,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Lots of professinals have a few letters, ,,like an introduction,, like senator, esq., "D. S"

Answer 10

yes its their title, they can have it. wheni get my doctorate, i want everyone to call me doctor. my father calls my friend whos a pharmacy student ¨doctor Carry´ which is an honorary title.