The Kerala High Court on Thursday issued a crucial interim directive barring physiotherapists and occupational therapists from using the prefix “Dr” unless they possess a recognised medical qualification. The order came while hearing a plea filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR).
Justice V.G. Arun, while passing the interim order, noted that there exists an apparent conflict between the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916, and the Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, which has led to confusion over the professional use of the title “Doctor.”
“There is an apparent conflict between the provisions of the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916, and the clauses in the Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy,” the judge observed.
The court directed the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) and the State Allied and Healthcare Council to ensure that physiotherapists and occupational therapists refrain from using the title ‘Dr’ unless they hold a recognised medical degree. The court also emphasised that such professionals should not portray themselves as primary healthcare providers.
The bench referred to an earlier order of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which had directed the immediate removal of the prefix “Dr” from the Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy, Approved Syllabus, 2025. The ministry had then clarified that any physiotherapist using the title ‘Doctor’ without a valid medical qualification would be violating the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916.
Although the ministry’s order (Ext.P4) was later withdrawn (Ext.P5), the High Court found that the petitioner had made out a prima facie case, warranting judicial intervention to prevent misuse of the title.
“The Ministry had directed to forthwith remove the usage of the prefix ‘Dr’ for physiotherapists… although that order was later withdrawn, the petitioner has established a prima facie case,” the court noted.
The matter will now be heard further on December 1, where the court is expected to deliberate on the scope of professional designations under the Allied and Healthcare Professions Act and their interplay with longstanding medical regulations.
The interim ruling is being seen as a landmark clarification in the ongoing debate over professional identity and designation in India’s healthcare ecosystem, reinforcing that the use of the ‘Dr’ title is reserved strictly for those with recognised medical degrees.
