Do you address a nurse practitioner as a doctor?

October 1, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), NPs deliver primary care in a variety of settings, highlighting their critical role in patient care. This raises a common question: Do you address a nurse practitioner as a doctor? The answer is nuanced, depending on their level of education and professional setting, and requires an understanding of different medical titles.

Quick Summary

The way you address a nurse practitioner depends on their educational background; some hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and may use the title 'doctor,' while others with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) do not. The most respectful approach is to ask your provider how they prefer to be addressed, as personal and institutional preferences vary.

Key Points

Not all NPs use the title 'doctor': A nurse practitioner's use of the title depends on their highest degree; those with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) have the academic right, but many do not use it in a clinical setting.
MD vs. DNP differences: Medical doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNPs) follow different training models; MDs focus on disease, while NPs with a DNP focus on holistic, patient-centered care.
Always ask for clarification: The most respectful and direct approach is to politely ask a healthcare provider how they prefer to be addressed to avoid making assumptions.
Institutional and state variations exist: Policies on title usage can vary by healthcare facility and are sometimes regulated by state laws, leading to different practices across locations.
Observe their introduction: Pay attention to how a provider introduces themselves during your initial meeting; this is often the clearest indication of their preferred title.
Understand their core training model: Knowing that a DNP is trained under a nursing model (emphasizing holistic care) versus a medical model (focusing on disease) can clarify the distinction, even if both can use the term 'doctor'.
Nurse practitioners fill a vital role: NPs are crucial members of the healthcare team, especially in primary care, and are highly qualified clinicians who can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication.

Understanding the Distinction Between NPs and Medical Doctors

While both nurse practitioners (NPs) and medical doctors (MDs) are highly trained healthcare providers, their educational paths and professional roles are distinct. MDs follow a medical model focusing on pathology, while NPs are grounded in a nursing model emphasizing holistic, patient-centered care.

Educational Paths and the 'Doctor' Title

A medical doctor (MD or DO) earns the 'doctor' title after medical school and residency. For nurse practitioners, the use of the title 'doctor' depends on their degree.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Most NPs have an MSN, allowing them to diagnose, order tests, and prescribe medication. They typically do not use the 'doctor' title.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

NPs with a DNP have a terminal degree and may use the 'doctor' title. However, many clarify they are not a medical doctor to prevent patient confusion.

Proper Etiquette: The Best Way to Address Your Provider

The most respectful approach is to ask your provider how they prefer to be addressed. Other guidelines include using their title and last name initially, paying attention to how they introduce themselves, and using full titles in formal written communication (e.g., "Dear Janet Doe, DNP, APRN").

Comparison: NP vs. MD/DO

Here's a comparison of key differences between a nurse practitioner with a DNP and a medical doctor:


Aspect	Nurse Practitioner (DNP)	Medical Doctor (MD/DO)
Title Use	Uses "Doctor" based on a terminal degree, but may prefer "NP" in clinical settings to avoid confusion.	Primarily uses "Doctor," a clinical title earned through medical school and residency.
Education Model	Based on the nursing model, with an emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care and prevention.	Based on the medical model, with a primary focus on the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
Training Length	Bachelor's + DNP (approx. 6-8 years total, including prior RN experience).	Bachelor's + Medical School + Residency (approx. 11-15+ years total).
Scope of Practice	Can diagnose, prescribe, and treat conditions, with varying levels of autonomy depending on state laws.	Broader and more in-depth scope, especially for complex cases and surgical procedures.
Focus	Often emphasizes health promotion, education, and disease prevention.	Focuses heavily on the pathophysiology and management of illness.
Clinical Hours	Requires fewer clinical hours during training compared to medical doctors.	Completes thousands of hours during residency training, offering extensive exposure to diverse conditions.

The Professional and Institutional Context

Healthcare settings and state laws can influence how providers are addressed. In academic settings, a DNP may be called 'doctor' more often, while state regulations may restrict non-physicians from using the title clinically.

How to Avoid Confusion

When meeting a new provider, start with a professional title and last name. Observe how they or others refer to them. If unsure, politely ask, "How do you prefer I address you?".

The Growing Role of Nurse Practitioners

NPs play a crucial role in healthcare, particularly in primary care, addressing provider shortages. They offer high-quality, evidence-based care for various conditions and focus on preventative care.

Conclusion: Respectful Communication is Key

Whether you address a nurse practitioner as a doctor depends on their education and preference. The most respectful approach is to ask them directly, ensuring clear communication and a positive patient-provider relationship.

Visit the American Association of Nurse Practitioners website to learn more about the NP role.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree has earned the academic right to use the title "doctor." However, many prefer to be addressed as "Nurse Practitioner" to avoid confusion with medical doctors in a clinical setting.

The most respectful way is to ask their preference directly. If unsure, use "Nurse Practitioner [Last Name]" or "NP [Last Name]." In formal written correspondence, use their full name and credentials, such as "Jane Doe, DNP, APRN."

The primary difference lies in their educational models and length of training. Medical doctors (MDs) follow a medical model with extensive residency training focused on disease management. Nurse practitioners (NPs), even with a DNP, follow a nursing model focusing on a more holistic, patient-centered approach with a shorter clinical training period.

Some doctorally-prepared NPs prefer not to be called 'doctor' in a clinical setting to prevent confusion for patients who may assume they are a medical doctor. This decision prioritizes clear communication and patient understanding over the use of their academic title.

Yes, some states have specific laws that regulate how healthcare professionals can use the title 'doctor.' These regulations may place restrictions on non-physicians using the title in a clinical context, even if they have earned a doctorate.

Common titles include "Nurse Practitioner," "NP," and "Advanced Practice Registered Nurse" (APRN). For those with a doctoral degree, "Doctor" is also a possible title, but its use varies.

No, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree in nursing and is not the same as a Doctor of Medicine (MD). While both allow for advanced practice, the education, training, and scope of practice differ significantly.