Addressing two individuals who hold the title of Doctor, whether an M.D. or Ph.D., requires precise formal etiquette. The correct format for correspondence or introduction depends entirely on the relationship status of the two professionals, such as whether they are married or simply professional colleagues. Understanding these subtle differences ensures that the formality and respect due to their title are properly conveyed in every communication scenario.
Understanding the Plural Title and Abbreviation
The standard abbreviation for the plural form of “Doctor” is “Drs.” This abbreviation is conventionally used in written correspondence when both individuals share the same last name. The title “The Doctors [Last Name]” is also appropriate for highly formal or social settings. Listing individual titles, such as “Dr. John Smith and Dr. Jane Smith,” is always correct but sacrifices the conciseness that the plural title provides. The specific discipline of the doctorate, such as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), generally does not alter the use of the generalized “Dr.” title for formal address.
Addressing Two Unrelated Professionals
When two doctors who are not related are addressed in a professional context, they must be listed separately and formally. Each professional must retain their full title and name to acknowledge their individual standing, as there is no shared relationship or surname to justify a collective plural title. In formal correspondence, the names are typically separated by “and.” They may be ordered alphabetically by last name, which is the most neutral approach, or listed according to professional rank or seniority. A written address example is “Dr. Jane Doe and Dr. John Smith.”
Addressing Two Married Doctors with the Same Last Name
When a married couple shares the same surname, the plural title is the most straightforward option. The abbreviation “Drs.” followed by the shared last name is the standard formal address for an envelope, establishing their dual professional status. For a slightly less formal written address, such as on a card, the full title can be written out as “The Doctors [Last Name].” When a more personal touch is needed, the most formal structure lists both first names: “Drs. John and Jane Smith.” This structure is generally preferred, though traditional etiquette sometimes dictates listing the male name first.
Addressing Two Married Doctors with Different Last Names
When a married couple consists of two doctors who have retained separate last names, the collective title “Drs.” cannot be used. This scenario requires maintaining the individuality of each professional title and name in all correspondence. The formal written address should present the names separated by “and,” with the title “Dr.” preceding each full name. Modern etiquette generally recommends ordering the names alphabetically by last name to maintain neutrality. For example, if the last names are Adams and Brown, the address would be “Dr. Sarah Adams and Dr. Michael Brown.”
Formatting the Written Address
The format for the outer envelope is the most rigid aspect of addressing two doctors, dictating the first line above the street address.
Addressing the Envelope
If the doctors share the same last name, the first line should read “Drs. John and Jane Smith” or “The Doctors Smith.” When the two doctors are unrelated or married with different last names, the first line must clearly list both titles and names, such as “Dr. Jane Doe and Dr. John Smith.” This line is positioned in the center of the envelope, directly above the street address.
Writing the Salutation
The formal salutation, or letter greeting, adopts a slightly less rigid structure than the envelope address. If the doctors share a name, the greeting is typically “Dear Drs. Smith,” which is succinct and professional. For those with different last names, the greeting should list both names separated by “and,” such as “Dear Dr. Doe and Dr. Smith.” The salutation generally uses only the last names.
Subsequent References
Within the body of the letter or document, reference to the doctors should remain formal. Subsequent references can use the plural “Drs. Smith” or individually by their last names, “Dr. Doe and Dr. Smith.” Maintaining the title “Dr.” before the last name throughout the text reinforces the formality of the communication.
Proper Verbal Introductions and Reference
Shifting from written correspondence to spoken etiquette requires using the full title and name for each person. When introducing two doctors at a professional gathering, a proper introduction would be, “I would like you to meet Dr. Jane Doe and Dr. John Smith.” In a social setting, particularly if the doctors are married and share a surname, a host may introduce them collectively as “The Doctors Smith.” However, when introducing them to someone new, the individual titles should still be used to ensure clarity. Referring to them in conversation also requires maintaining the title, even when speaking about them to a third party. The title should never be dropped in a formal or professional environment, ensuring the introduction or reference acknowledges their professional standing.