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Kerala High Court Restricts Use of ‘Dr.’ Title by Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists
The order underscores the legal distinction between registered medical doctors and allied health professionals, stressing that the use of the title “Dr.” implies a qualification recognised under the Indian Medical Degrees Act.
- By Newsdesk
- Kochi
- Nov 07, 2025
In a significant interim ruling, the Kerala High Court has directed that physiotherapists and occupational therapists cannot use the prefix “Dr.” unless they hold a recognised medical qualification.
Justice V. G. Arun, who issued the order, noted an apparent conflict between the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916, and the curriculum provisions outlined by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) for physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
The court observed that the recently approved “Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy – Approved Syllabus, 2025,” prepared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, does not include the use of the “Dr.” prefix. Although the ministry had withdrawn its initial direction on this matter, the High Court found that the petitioners had established a prima facie case warranting interim protection.
The petition was filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR), which argued that physiotherapists and occupational therapists should function under the supervision of qualified medical professionals rather than representing themselves as first-line healthcare providers.
The court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on December 1.
The order underscores the legal distinction between registered medical doctors and allied health professionals, stressing that the use of the title “Dr.” implies a qualification recognised under the Indian Medical Degrees Act. It also highlights the regulatory importance of ensuring that professional titles reflect accurate credentials, as these directly influence public perception and trust in healthcare providers.
The decision is expected to prompt discussions on revising the curriculum and regulatory frameworks governing allied health professions and could set a precedent for similar actions in other states.
(Source: PTI)