Section 43-17-02.2 - Use of certain words or initials prohibited1. An individual not licensed as a physician or resident physician under this chapter is prohibited from using the title of "doctor of medicine", "medical doctor", "doctor of osteopathic medicine", "osteopathic physician", "physician", "M.D.", or "D.O.".2. An individual not licensed as a physician assistant under this chapter is prohibited from using the title of "physician assistant" or "P.A.".3. This section may not be construed as to prohibit a licensed health care professional from using a title incorporating any of the words specified in subsection 1 or 2, or from using a title or designation that is not specifically protected by subsection 1 or 2, if the title or designation used is permitted under the health care professional's practice act.4. Notwithstanding subsections 1 and 2, an individual who does not hold an active physician, resident physician, or physician assistant license may still use the title conferred by a qualified educational degree recognized under this chapter, but may not practice unless licensed under this chapter.Amended by S.L. 2023 , ch. 382( SB 2115 ), § 4, eff. 7/1/2023.Amended by S.L. 2019 , ch. 355( HB 1175 ), § 4, eff. 8/1/2019.Amended by S.L. 2015 , ch. 297( HB 1153 ), § 19, eff. 8/1/2015.