Physiotherapists cannot use ‘Dr’ title without medical degree: Kerala HC
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Kochi: The Kerala High Court has ruled that physiotherapists and occupational therapists cannot use the prefix “Dr” unless they hold a recognised medical degree.
The interim order, delivered by Justice V.G. Arun, came on a plea filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR), which sought to prevent these professionals from presenting themselves as first-line healthcare providers.
The court issued notices to the Union Health Ministry, the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), the State Allied and Healthcare Council, and the National Medical Commission (NMC), seeking their response to the petition.
IAPMR argued that physiotherapists and occupational therapists should be confined to supporting roles in healthcare. The court noted that the Health Ministry had initially issued a September 9, 2025, notification directing the removal of the “Dr” prefix in the Competency Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy–Approved Syllabus, 2025, citing the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916. However, this notification was withdrawn the following day.
The court directed authorities to ensure that physiotherapists and occupational therapists do not use the “Dr” prefix without recognised medical qualifications. The matter will be heard again on December 1.
With PTI inputs