As a domain expert, I'd like to clarify the misconceptions surrounding the terms "doctor" and "PhD" and the journey one undertakes to earn a PhD, as well as the professional paths that may follow.
Firstly, a PhD, which stands for 'Doctor of Philosophy,' is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields of study. Earning a PhD is a rigorous process that involves original research and the presentation of a dissertation, which is a substantial piece of scholarly work that contributes to the existing body of knowledge in a particular field. The dissertation is indeed expected to be of high quality and may be published in an academic journal, but the publication is not a requirement for the awarding of the degree itself.
To embark on a PhD program, one typically requires a bachelor's degree and often a postgraduate qualification such as a master's degree. The journey through a PhD is not just about academic achievement; it's also about developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and becoming an expert in a specific area of study.
Now, regarding the question of whether one becomes a "doctor" after completing a PhD, it's important to differentiate between the use of the term in an academic and professional context. In an academic context, the title "Doctor" is often used as an honorific to acknowledge the individual's advanced level of education and expertise. However, this does not equate to being a medical doctor, which requires a completely different educational path and professional training.
A medical doctor, or physician, is a healthcare professional who has completed medical school and holds a degree in medicine, such as an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). This path involves a significant amount of clinical training and practice, and it is regulated by medical boards and licensing requirements that are distinct from those for PhD holders.
After completing a PhD, individuals often pursue careers in academia, research, or specialized fields related to their area of study. Some may become professors, researchers in industry or government, or experts in think tanks and policy-making organizations. Others may choose to apply their skills in unrelated fields, such as business, consulting, or technology, where the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities developed during a PhD program are highly valued.
In summary, while a PhD is a prestigious academic achievement that can lead to a variety of professional opportunities, it does not directly qualify someone to practice medicine or become a medical doctor. The paths to becoming a "doctor" in the academic sense and a "doctor" in the medical sense are distinct and require different sets of qualifications and training.

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You will have to write a dissertation that your tutors think is good enough to be published in an academic journal. PhD is short for 'doctor of philosophy'. ... You will need at least a bachelor's degree and normally a postgraduate qualification such as a master's degree before you can study for a doctorate or PhD.read more >>