Doctor of pharmacy is a doctor?

Yes, a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD or Doctor of Pharmacy) is considered a doctor in the United States and several other countries. The distinction between a medical doctor (MD) and a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) lies in their professional focus and scope of practice.

Medical doctors receive training in diagnosing and treating medical conditions, while pharmacists receive training in the preparation and dispensing of medications and the management of drug therapy. Both professions are considered doctorates and require extensive education and training.

In the United States, pharmacists hold a PharmD degree, complete residency training, and are licensed by the state in which they practice. They work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other specialists, to optimize medication use and patient care.

The title "doctor" is often used in the context of individuals holding a doctoral degree, and in this regard, a doctor of pharmacy falls under this category.

However, it is important to recognize that the title of "doctor" alone does not necessarily mean that someone has a medical degree or is directly involved in patient care. There are many other types of doctorates across different fields, each with its own unique scope of practice.

In most cases, it is customary to refer to pharmacists as "Doctor" followed by their last name as a sign of respect and acknowledgment of their professional qualifications and expertise in the field of pharmacy.