I enjoyed "Resolved: The AMA Is Out of Touch" (Editorial, August). Recently, I was accepted to a doctorate of nursing practice (DNP) program and have had to defend myself to physicians who wonder why I want this degree. I reside in a state that still has not granted prescriptive rights to NPs. Mason hit the nail on the head-physicians are scared!! But why? I am one of the NPs you mention, who doesn't want to practice independently.

I was saddened when I heard that I might be unable to be referred to as "Dr. Williams" in clinical practice. If I wanted to be a physician, I would have applied to medical school. I just want to be recognized for my accomplishments.

Atlanta