Dr. Bobby Newbell’s article “Dressed to Ill” [June 2006] sounded like an effort to justify the lazy actions of doctors who are willing to sacrifice professionalism for comfort. He writes, “Dressing somewhat formally once conveyed maturity, professionalism and success.” It still does! Nonverbal communication comes in many forms, and professional appearance is not the least of these. I respect my patients, and that’s why I make the effort to show them professionalism at all levels, including through my attire. Until studies prove otherwise, we must do our best to appear professional and advance what we have left of our professional status.