Does a doctor need doctorate degree?

In most countries, the term "doctor" is protected by law and can only be used by individuals who have obtained a doctoral-level degree in a relevant field, such as medicine, dentistry, or philosophy.

In the medical field, a doctorate degree, specifically a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, is the minimum educational requirement to become a licensed physician and legally practice medicine. These degrees signify that the individual has undergone rigorous medical education, training, and passed relevant licensing examinations.

Therefore, yes, in the context of practicing medicine, a doctor typically needs a doctorate degree that specializes in that field.