FLASHBACK: Abdul El-Sayed brags about being an MD, but can’t practise as one

Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has come under criticism over his repeated description of himself as a physician despite not holding a licence to practise medicine.

In an opinion article published by The Detroit News and reproduced by Blue Water Healthy Living, columnist Nolan Finley questioned El-Sayed’s use of his medical qualifications during his Senate campaign.

Finley noted that El-Sayed holds a medical degree from Columbia University and a doctorate in epidemiology but has never completed the residency training required for independent medical practice.

According to the columnist, El-Sayed frequently presents himself as a doctor rather than a politician, while his LinkedIn profile identifies him as a “physician.”

Finley argued that such descriptions could create the impression that El-Sayed has professional experience treating patients.

The columnist also referenced Senator Bernie Sanders, who highlighted El-Sayed’s medical background while campaigning for him and promoting healthcare reform.

Although El-Sayed previously led public health departments in Detroit and Wayne County, Finley maintained that administrative experience differs from practising clinical medicine.

He further cited Michigan’s public health code, which prohibits unlicensed individuals from using professional titles that could suggest they possess medical licences.

Finley compared El-Sayed’s presentation of his credentials to individuals who exaggerate military service records to gain recognition.

However, El-Sayed legitimately earned his medical degree, which distinguishes his academic qualifications from the separate legal requirements for clinical practice.

The controversy centres on whether his campaign descriptions accurately communicate that distinction to voters.

El-Sayed has argued that his medical education provides valuable insight into healthcare policy and supports his advocacy for reforms.

The opinion column did not report any formal disciplinary action or criminal proceedings against the candidate over his use of medical titles.