Prescription for professionalism

Re “Should I call my doctor ‘doctor,’ or is that passe?” Opinion, Nov. 7

Nicholas Goldberg’s piece about whether to address his longtime physician formally or by his first name raises a good issue.

I am a mostly retired cardiologist with 49 years of practice. I think that physicians should be addressed as “Doctor” in the office or hospital. This serves important functions.

Patients need to be confident in the professionalized relationship. They discuss very private matters with the physician; they should not have to worry about whether or not that information is improperly shared. The relationship has nothing to do with the patient as a “subordinate.”

Outside a medical environment, how one addresses a physician depends on their relationship. Stephen Berens, MD

Encino

As a mediator, I did pro-bono work for the Los Angeles County Bar Assn., including training students in peer mediation.

I was also a university professor, and the kids asked me what they should call me.

I told them they could call me “Dr. J,” and although I didn’t have his moves, I expected them to pay attention. They did, and we had some great classes.

Janet Cameron Hoult

Culver City

:: Some patients use the title “Doctor” and the individual’s first name, as in “Dr. Bob.” They feel it maintains the feeling of respect while allowing for some informality.

Stu Bernstein Santa Monica