Physicians top the list of the 17 most prestigious professions and occupations as perceived by the public, according to the results of a Harris poll. Approximately 61 percent of the public believe the physicians have "very great prestige," up from 52 percent a year ago and 50 percent in 1992. It was the highest score for physicians since the 1977 survey. Humphrey Taylor, chairman of Louis Harris & Associates, said the results "may reflect the public's increasing dislike of managed care and a perception that doctors are often the patients' advocates in disputes about what treatments managed care plans will provide." Following physicians in the list were scientists, teachers, ministers/clergymen and policemen as the most prestigious occupations.