The top-level domain (TLD), .DOCTOR, is an internet domain name extension that represents the medical profession or health-related information. Introduced by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), it is a part of the new generic top-level domain (gTLD) program aimed at enhancing competition and consumer choice in the domain marketplace.
The .DOCTOR domain name is targeted at professionals, organizations, and businesses involved in the medical field. For individuals, it can be used to showcase credentials, specialties, and professional histories. For institutions, such as hospitals and medical schools, .DOCTOR can enhance online reputation and increase the visibility of their websites, as reported by bNamed, a domain name specialist.
For example, a healthcare provider named John Doe might create a domain like “JohnDoe.doctor” to present his professional information online. Alternatively, a hospital could create a domain like “HeartSpecialists.doctor” to highlight their cardiac division.
According to Donuts.inc, a domain name registrar company, .DOCTOR is an open domain name, meaning anyone can register it without needing to validate their professional standing. This openness of the domain also extends its potential usage beyond medical doctors to other types of doctors, such as academics with doctorate (Ph.D.) degrees and business consultants delivering troubleshooting or problem-solving services (i.e., business “doctors”).
However, the use of an unrestricted internet domain like .DOCTOR has sparked controversy among domain industry watchdogs due to the potential for its misuse. It is said to be susceptible to exploitation by unscrupulous people who could use it to portray themselves as medical professionals and offer dubious health advice or services. Therefore, actual medical professionals and institutions are encouraged to secure their .DOCTOR domains to maintain control over their identities online, as suggested by an article on domainnamewire.com.
In terms of usage, the .DOCTOR domain extension follows the conventional process for internet domains. Once registered through a domain registrar, it is controlled by the domain owner and can be used for websites, emails, and more. The .DOCTOR domain prices vary per registrar, and it is often available on yearly renewable contracts.
In conclusion, .DOCTOR offers a unique and specific way for medical professionals and institutions to designate their professional identity online. However, due to its unrestricted nature, it requires responsible handling to mitigate potential misuses.
Sources:
1. ICANN – New gTLD Program, https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/
2. bNamed – .doctor domain name, https://www.bnamed.net/en/extension/744/doctor\_domains
3. Donuts Inc. – .DOCTOR, https://donuts.domains/services/domain-names
4. Domain Name Wire – .doctor will be open to all, not necessarily just doctors, https://domainnamewire.com/2015/10/27/doctor-will-be-open-to-all-not-necessarily-just-doctors/
