Can we use DR with first name?

We use a title (Mr, Mrs, Ms, Dr, Prof) and the surname in more formal situations. We don’t usually use the title alone, or the title and first name (although we sometimes use a job title): Not: Dr David, can I ask …?

How should a doctor address a patient?

It is argued that physicians ought not to use a patient’s first name unless the patient also uses the physician’s first name. In short, physicians and patients should always address each other with the same level of formality. It is argued that this is so even when patients invite physicians to address them informally.

Do you call doctors by their last name?

Academic, professional and occupational titles (such as “Dr”, “Professor”, “Constable”) are always used with surname, or with both name. I have a friend who we know as “Dr Tim”, but this is a sort of friendly joke, to the people who knew him before he qualified.

How do doctors call their patients?

Many healthcare professionals call patients by nicknames, such as, “honey” and “sweetie.” I believe these are terms of endearment and in most cases meant with genuine warm feelings toward patients.

Do you call your doctor by their first name?

A study published in The British Medical Journal looked at the question of patient preferences regarding how doctors address them. Interestingly, most patients surveyed, particularly those younger than 65, preferred that their physicians call them by their first name. But doctors do this at their own peril.

What is the guidance for physicians?

Guidance is provided to physicians inviting them to ask patients how they would prefer to be addressed. That could lead naturally to your question. Most physicians never have the conversation. This is perhaps because it is one of scores of issues to address at the first patient visit.

Is it rude for a doctor to say hi to Liz?

But a doctor who says, “Hi, Liz, I’m Dr. Smith” is just being rude. He’s trying to assert himself as an authority figure who should be obeyed, not as my collaborator in health. I also have a title, a Ph.D. that took me longer to earn than his M.D. took him. I almost never use my title, not even with my students.

How should I address patients who are my senior?

As a rule, patients who are my senior are always “Mr./Ms./Dr.” Patients I meet for the first time are always addressed by their title, even teenagers (it seems silly, I know). Although many patients introduce themselves by their first name, I would never presume to address them as such without their specific permission.