A large majority of physicians, 74%, frown upon nurses with clinical PhDs calling themselves "doctor" according to Medscape's 2024 "Hot Topics in the Medical Profession Report," published Sept. 18.
However, 14% of physicians are fine with clinical nurses calling themselves "doctor." Many physicians believe that allowing nurses to use the "doctor" moniker can confuse patients and complicate care.
Some states are even considering laws to prevent non-physicians from using the "doctor" title. In 2022, California nurse practitioner Sarah Erny, DNP, was fined nearly $20,000 for illegally presenting herself as a physician, calling herself "doctor" on social media and with patients.
California and Georgia have recently passed laws that prevent nurses from using the title.