Kerala HC restrains physio, occupational therapists using Prefix ‘Dr’ without medical qualification

New Delhi, Nov 6: The Kerala High Court has directed authorities to prevent physiotherapists and occupational therapists from using the prefix ‘Dr’ unless they hold recognised medical qualifications, Bar and Bench reported.

The interim order was passed by Justice V.G. Arun while hearing a petition filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR). The association alleged that many physiotherapists and occupational therapists were using the prefix ‘Dr.’ without holding medical degrees, in violation of the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916.

Justice Arun observed that there appeared to be a prima facie conflict between the 1916 Act and provisions in the Competency-Based Curriculums for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (2025), which had allowed the use of the ‘Dr.’ title. The Court noted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had earlier directed the removal of the prefix ‘Dr.’ from the approved Physiotherapy curriculum, stating that its use without a recognised qualification would amount to a statutory violation. Although that order was later withdrawn, the judge said the petitioner had made out a prima facie case for intervention. Accordingly, the Court directed competent authorities to ensure that physiotherapists and occupational therapists do not use the prefix ‘Dr.’ without recognised medical qualifications. The matter has been posted for further hearing on December 1.