In a move stirring debate across India’s healthcare circles, the Kerala High Court has temporarily barred physiotherapists and occupational therapists from using the honorific “Dr.” unless they possess officially recognised medical qualifications.
The bench, led by Justice VG Arun, noted a prima facie conflict between the century-old Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916 and the newly framed Competency-Based Curriculums for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (2025)—the latter allowing these professionals to use the title.
The Court recalled that the Health Ministry, through an earlier directive, had explicitly ordered the removal of “Dr.” from the physiotherapy curriculum, stating that its use without a recognised medical degree would contravene the 1916 Act. Though that directive was swiftly withdrawn the following day, the Court found the petitioner’s concerns valid enough to warrant interim restraint.
The petition, filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR), argued that physiotherapists and occupational therapists identifying themselves as doctors misrepresented their professional scope. The association sought clear directions against the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) and the State Allied and Healthcare Council to enforce compliance.
Finding merit in the plea, the Court directed competent authorities to prevent the use of “Dr.” by those without accredited medical qualifications. The interim order explicitly restricts such titles from appearing in professional materials or communication until the case concludes.
The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on December 1.
