Can a speech-language pathologist or audiologist who has a Ph.D. use the title “Doctor”?
The RHPA states that, with the exception of Chiropractors, Optometrists, Physicians, Psychologists and Dentists, “no person shall use the title Doctor, a variation or abbreviation or an equivalent in another language, in the course of providing or offering to provide, in Ontario, health care to individuals.” The government has defined audiology and speech-language pathology services as health care services. This means that even though members have a Ph.D., they may not use the title Doctor when providing audiology or speech-language pathology services, even if these services are provided in an academic setting such as a university clinic. Two examples of when members may use the title Doctor are in academic settings when the member is not providing health care services and at social settings. For further information, please refer to the Professional Misconduct Regulations.
