Is physician a fancy word for doctor?

No, "physician" is not a fancy word for "doctor". While both terms refer to individuals who have undergone medical training and are licensed to practice medicine, there are some important distinctions between the two.

1. Scope of Practice:

- Physician: The term "physician" is typically used to refer to medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs). These individuals are licensed to practice medicine and can perform a wide range of medical procedures, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, performing surgeries, and prescribing medication.

- Doctor: The term "doctor" is a more general term and can refer to any individual who has a doctorate degree. This can include medical doctors, but also individuals with doctorates in other fields, such as law, philosophy, or education.

2. Educational Background:

- Physician: To become a physician, individuals must complete a bachelor's degree, four years of medical school, and a residency program of at least three years.

- Doctor: The educational background required to earn the title "doctor" varies depending on the field. In some cases, a doctoral degree can be obtained through research and the successful completion of a dissertation, while in other cases, it may require professional training or experience.

In conclusion, while both physicians and doctors have advanced degrees and are involved in the medical field, "physician" is a specific term used for individuals licensed to practice medicine, whereas "doctor" is a broader term that can apply to individuals with doctorate degrees in various disciplines.