Doctors, or physicians, are professionals who practice in the medical field. This term may differ depending on the country but is mostly associated with professionals who work in health care or medicine. Their job is centered on promoting, restoring and maintaining the health of patients through the study, diagnosis and treatment of injury, disease, and additional physical and mental conditions. The word doctor may be used to describe people with a doctorate-level degree.

In the academic industry, the term doctor is largely used to describe an individual who has earned a degree of Doctor of Philosophy or PhD. This term also applies to those who have received a research doctorate, such as Doctor of Science or ScD. Academia aside, this title is used for professionals in law and medicine, such as: Doctor of Psychology or PsyD, Doctor of Medicine or MD, Juris Doctor or JD, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine or DO.

There are a variety of physicians. Typically they have a different focus when it comes to their practice. The focus may be determined by the methods of treatment applied, category of disease or kind of patient. Professionals cannot properly practice if they are without advanced knowledge on topics such as anatomy and physiology. The role and definition of a physician will vary regionally.

In order to work professionally under this title, a certain level of qualifications and degrees must be obtained. These requirements will also differ considerably by region, but there are some commonalities. Medical ethics is important in most parts of the world. It is the system of moral principles that apply judgments and values to this practice. It mandates that these professionals show benevolence, compassion and consideration for all patients.

In the US, people have to complete undergraduate courses and a graduate program, each four years, to earn a DO or MD title. Those training to become a nurse, pharmacist, dentist, chiropractor or other special doctor will need to complete undergraduate studies and a post-graduate program, both four years as well. Training in the UK includes up to six years of course studies or a four-year graduate entry course.

Doctors have earned their license to practice and are trained in healing. In some parts of the world or cultures, these individuals practice folk medicine or magic. Modern doctors, in most societies, have earned the top degree available through university or college and done the necessary amount of training.

Dependent on specialization, these professionals may use modern medicine and technology for diagnostic and treatment purposes. There are doctors who practice in naturopathy or consider themselves holistic in approach. These professionals may use natural elements to help diagnose and treat their patients. They may carry a different set of beliefs in terms of how the body functions and its self-healing properties.

Doctors is often used when referencing physicians who practice professionally in the field of medicine. It is also a title given to people who have the highest degree available in college or university. The job description, qualifications and definition of these professionals may differ by region.