Vinjamuri et al Reference Vinjamuri, Nehal and Latt1 point out that there has been little research into patients' preferences about how they are greeted by their psychiatrist. I have discovered that there is virtually nothing published on how we should greet those with whom we work, and the issues are similar.
It is quite common for paramedical staff to be addressed by their first names by doctors, especially consultants, who seem to expect to be called by their title in return. As a trainee, I have been struck by how often, without asking, I am greeted by my first name by seniors in rank, but often not in age, who expect me to use their title when speaking to them. It is hardly surprising then that this sort of power imbalance is perpetuated in our dealings with patients.
It is worth noting that the 1982 edition of the classic book on polite behaviour, Debrett's Etiquette and Modern Manners, Reference Burch2 is quite clear on forms of address in business: ‘The use of Christian names should work both ways except where there is a substantial age gap. It is arrogant of a superior to choose to be addressed formally, yet to call subordinates by their first names (or by last names only).’ We would do well to remember this and extend this to all with whom we come into contact.
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