In the field of medicine, a conversation that often goes unnoticed is whether patients ought to call their doctors by their first name. This subject frequently appears in medical discussions, where extensive debates analyze the possible disrespect, challenges to authority, or cultural changes in perceptions of physicians. Some doctors strongly prefer to be addressed as “Doctor” to uphold their status, respect, and professionalism. Dr. Ryan Nadelson values being referred to as Dr. Nadelson in the examination room, as the title recognizes his role and the responsibilities he holds. Nevertheless, outside the medical environment, he feels at ease being called Ryan, understanding that to friends, colleagues, and family, he is simply Ryan.
Dr. Nadelson has diligently earned his medical degree and takes pride in it. However, he does not view being called by his first name as a sign of disrespect. Instead, he often interprets it as an indication of comfort or trust. If this minor gesture helps someone feel more relaxed or encourages a more personal interaction, he embraces it. The relationship between a physician and a patient is more significant than sticking to tradition.
Some physicians advocate for addressing patients as “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by their surname, aiming to be courteous and professional. To Dr. Nadelson, this strategy can seem remote and impersonal, as if creating a barrier. He considers his patients to be part of his professional family, familiar with their stories and seeing them regularly. Thus, if patients opt to call him Ryan, he does not correct them, as nurturing connection holds more importance than rigidly adhering to formality.
Dr. Nadelson recognizes and honors that for certain doctors, being addressed as “Doctor” is crucial, and establishing that boundary is completely reasonable. Yet, he believes that permitting patients the choice to call him Ryan facilitates more connections and enhances rapport. When patients use his first name, it signifies that the white coat did not create a divide and that the power dynamic did not obstruct connection, suggesting he is on the right track.
While formal environments like team rounds, hospital meetings, and academic discussions may require titles for structure and clarity, the examination room serves as a space where lasting relationships thrive, and familiarity can encourage trust. In numerous cultures, using someone’s first name does not signify disrespect but rather conveys warmth. Often, we use first names for patients, and they may simply respond in kind.
At times, patients may use first names to level the playing field, assert a degree of control during sensitive moments, or show a willingness to connect on a more personal level. For Dr. Nadelson, this suggests that the power dynamic has not overshadowed the relationship between doctor and patient. Respect is essential, and while the title “Doctor” carries significance, respect is also reflected in how individuals interact, trust, and listen to the physician.
Dr. Nadelson decided to become a doctor not for the title itself but to make a difference. Therefore, while he appreciates being called Dr. Nadelson in acknowledgment of his effort and the trust placed in him, he will not correct those who address him as Ryan. He aims to meet patients where they are, recognizing that behind every title is a person. When patients recognize the individual behind the white coat, it signifies the genuine onset of the healing journey.
Interestingly, the very platform where Dr. Nadelson contributes, KevinMD, employs the first name of its founder, highlighting the conversation about name usage within the medical community.