Physiotherapists can no longer use 'Doctor' before their name; Kerala High Court's decision

In Brief

• Physiotherapists can no longer use 'Doctor' before their name

• What is the interim order of the court?

• What do the doctor organizations say?

Now physiotherapists and occupational therapists will not be able to use the title 'Doctor' (Dr) before their names, as per an important decision given by the High Court according to significant orders.

What is the interim order of the court?

The Kerala High Court issued this interim (temporary) order on November 4. According to this order, only individuals with medical degrees under the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916, can use the title 'Doctor'. The purpose of this is to maintain transparency in health services and to prevent public misunderstanding about professional qualifications.

What do the doctor organizations say?

The doctor organizations have welcomed this decision of the court. According to them, this decision will stop professional confusion and maintain patient trust. Both the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR) and the Indian Medical Association (IMA) have supported this decision. According to them, this will maintain the integrity of the medical profession and clarify the roles of various professionals in the healthcare sector.

What is the main reason behind the order?

The court has made this decision due to a conflict found in the regulations of the Indian Medical Degree Act, 1916 and the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) curriculum. The NCAHP curriculum allowed physiotherapists to use the title 'Dr'. Previously, after objections from doctors, the Director General of Health Services (DGHS) in Kerala had withdrawn their old order allowing physiotherapists to use the title 'Dr' within 24 hours.

When is the next hearing?

The next hearing of this case is scheduled for December 1. Until then, the Kerala High Court has also clarified that physiotherapists and occupational therapists will be prohibited from using the title 'Doctor'.