Should I Tip the Doctor?

Question

I bought a deal for laser pixel skin resurfacing treatment and I am wondering if I should tip the doctor whom will be performing the treatment on me. I think the venue is owned and operated by the doctor. He's offering the treatment at a discounted price on the deal site I purchased from. Should I consider it as a treatment I would get a spa and tip accordingly? Or should I consider it as a visit to the doctors office?

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Ultimately, the decision is yours, but I would say you do not need to tip the doctor.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Doctors provide treatment, medically, even if it is a cosmetic concern and do not receive tips ethically.

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Normal etiquette is to not tip the physician. Tip the staff who works for him/her instead. The physician would be happy to know that the staff took good care of you. I hope this helps.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not customary to tip a physician or his staff. If you like the care, the best compliment is to refer your friends and family to him.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Although in our North American society we often tip service providers, it would not be appropriate to tip the doctor for ethical reasons. It is nice of you to ask, and indeed many doctors feel under appreciated, so if you were to thank them with a card or a positive posting online, that would be greatly appreciated.

Lana Long, MD · Answer

You should not tip the doctor.  It is
against our code of ethics to accept them.  If you are happy with the service and results, I am sure your doctor would appreciate a nice online review.  I love your question and hope you love your results.  Lana Long MD

Jo Herzog, MD · Answer

If the doctor does your procedure you absolutely should not tip the doctor. The doctor hopes that you will be happy with the service and come back to the office again. Becoming a new patient would be the best way to say thank you.

Should I Tip the Doctor?

Answers (7)