The Kerala High Court has directed authorities to ensure that physiotherapists and occupational therapists without recognised medical qualifications do not use the “Dr.” prefix before their names.
The court issued this interim order while hearing a case linked to the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), stressing that using the title “Dr.” without a valid medical degree could mislead patients and violate the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916.
Citing existing judicial precedents, the High Court observed that only those registered with a recognised medical council and holding a medical graduate qualification can legally use the “Dr.” prefix or practise modern medicine.
The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) also backed this stance, recently warning that physiotherapists and occupational therapists must avoid using “Dr.” in their professional identity, as it creates public confusion. The DGHS has urged the NCAHP to revise its draft curriculum to remove the prefix and adopt more suitable professional titles.
The decision has been welcomed by medical associations, which say it will help maintain transparency and trust in the healthcare system, while preventing any blurring of lines between doctors and allied health professionals.
This ruling marks a clear message from the judiciary — titles that imply medical expertise must reflect genuine, recognised qualifications, ensuring patient safety and professional integrity across the healthcare sector.
