What is the default title when addressing a prof with a PhD... "Prof." or "Dr."?

I find myself having to do a bit of research before meeting one, to see how they refer to themselves in their bios. I'm around 50/50 in how one addresses oneself.

(Some, I'd like to address as "DB" )

I think it's best if you comment on what you know instead of making generalizations about higher standards you know nothing about.

Just thought I would relate a semi-related tidbit on this topic.

My wife is a physician in Denmark-- she was specfiically warned by a med school professor that she should NEVER identify herself as a Doctor when flying in the states, even though her danish license is reciprically recognized by almost all countries in the world. She is not licenced in the states, and furthermore her malpractice insurance would not cover such a situation. Even if she has equal (or better) training than a peer in the states and indeed a moral obligation to help in life threathing situations, I tend to agree with her professor-- kind of sickening, but thats how it is.

Doesn't New Hampshire or one of the other Northeastern states have a law that states you are required to help?

The Good Samaritan Law?

I'm sure Jerry Seinfeld could enlighten us...

their name on their frequent flyer account.

As for whether you can write "perks" into your contract with a university: maybe at a private university, or it you're funded by private money (but still, not very likely ... you'd have to be highly sought after to get away with such a request. Almost always, public money (state, federal) cannot be used to pay for first class - and for international flights for which you're going to be reimbursed, you're supposed to fly american carriers unless you can justify why not (no flights on an american carrier to the destination, etc.).

Just one example of how a professor (and possibly an MD) can provide misinformation. If she were the only physician available, she'd definitely be covered by good samaritan laws. If she pushed away a physician licensed in the US, insisted on providing the care, and claimed to be licensed in the US, she might have problems.

Or be in the employ of the W.H.O.

Just one example of how a professor (and possibly an MD) can provide misinformation. If she were the only physician available, she'd definitely be covered by good samaritan laws (which doesn't mean you cannot be sued if you do something grossly negligent - but also, there are laws which require you to render aid). If she pushed away a physician licensed in the US, insisted on providing the care, and claimed to be licensed in the US, she might have problems.

For more info: http://medi-smart.com/gslaw.htm

I don't know about what the ethical and professional standards are in Denmark, but a US physician would be in violation of them if s/he didn't step forward to help in a serious situation, if no one else of equal competence wasn't otherwise available. (It doesn't matter how much it "inconveniences" you; you're obligated).

As a doctor in practice for several years I don't know why
"flashing" and M.D. badge would or should help you.
Should nurses flash "RN" or "LPN" or "BSN" and expect special treatment?

Would you tell them that you're "in training" as a resident? Because that would be the truth.
I frankly would be embarassed to even ask - why should we receive special treatment, especially when most of us can afford to buy the ticket outright?

If they need help, they'll ask. I've flown hundreds of thousands of miles and have never been onboard when they've even asked for a doctor.

You're a resident, and I have some advice for you - don't flash your professional status to the public.
It's a profession, not something to "flash", and you'll appear very arrogant.
The truth is, nobody really cares that you're (we're) doctors, unless they're patients. Trust me on this.
Don't dishonor the profession. Television is already doing a good job at that.

I think you'll be able to afford the business class/first class ticket in a few years - be patient. It's obvious you have experienced delayed gratification, or you wouldn't be where you are today.

Good luck in your studies.
Maybe you should consider investment banking? It's never too late.
The world needs more investment bankers and they make LOTS of money, right? That comment of yours was shameful!

Well put. Let's hope he or she will take our advice.

Hi Lindisfarne,

thanks for the contribution and the link.
It was a doctor and he was aware of the referenced laws. This was clarified,-- both the existence of good Samaritan laws, and the fact that they would most likely be sued as a matter of course was explained. I wish I could scoff at such a proclamation, but alas....
The ethical standards are the same, and while she was in the war zone in Burundi pulling gernades out of refugees, she operated under a strong sense of obligation. However I'm sorry to say that our broken legal system of regulating doctor conduct is extremely dangerous territory for someone who has neither the legal coverage nor the financial resources of most US doctors, and frankly it is our own system's fault. (I am a US ex-pat).

I spoke to her about it, and she very much hopes the situation never arises as it would be terrible-- she would probably act anyway regardless of the financial crapstorm that would most likely ensue.

I try to get to a continuing medical education meeting in Hawaii or the Grand Tetons or Snowbird or... once a year as is required for my licensure. That which my work CME budget at the largest HMO in the country does not provide we take in a nice healthy tax deduction. My husband and family enjoy the conference at the Mauna Kea in Hawaii best of all. That is the one and only travel bonus for me in primary care. My girlfriend who writes textbooks is a frequent speaker at these types of gatherings. She not only gets the travel paid for she gets an honorarium.

Study hard, work hard, play hard.

P.S. My patients often call me by my first name. I prefer it.

Very good post Flyingfox.

You have a very good attitude.

What 4thplz said ^