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Summary:

The Kerala High Court has issued an interim order preventing physiotherapists and occupational therapists without recognized medical degrees from using the prefix “Dr.” The order follows a petition by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR), which argued that unauthorized use of the title was misleading and violated the Indian Medical Degrees Act of 1916. The IAPMR emphasized the role of these therapists as supportive healthcare providers under the supervision of qualified medical professionals. The case highlights a conflict between the aforementioned act and the approved syllabus of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) previously issued a similar directive, which was later withdrawn, further adding to the controversy surrounding the use of the title “Dr.” by these professionals.

News Article:

Kerala High Court Restricts “Dr.” Title for Some Therapists

Kozhikode, India – November 6, 2025 – The Kerala High Court has issued an interim order barring physiotherapists and occupational therapists who do not possess recognized medical degrees from using the prefix “Dr.” The ruling, delivered on November 4th, 2025, comes in response to a petition filed by the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR).

The IAPMR argued that the unauthorized use of the title was a misrepresentation of qualifications and contravened the Indian Medical Degrees Act of 1916. Justice V.G. Arun, presiding over the case, acknowledged a potential conflict between the aforementioned act and the Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (Approved Syllabus 2025) issued by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions.

“This interim direction reinforces that the title ‘Dr.’ is protected under the Indian Medical Degrees Act,” said P.C. Muralidharan, President of IAPMR, in a statement. He emphasized that physiotherapy and occupational therapy professionals play a vital supportive role within the healthcare system, working under the supervision of qualified medical doctors, not as independent practitioners.

Harshanand Popalwar, Honorary Secretary of IAPMR and a petitioner in the case, called the order “a significant step towards preventing professional misrepresentation.”

The ruling follows a previously issued and then withdrawn directive from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) barring physiotherapists from using the “Dr.” prefix. The DGHS cited concerns that such usage could mislead patients and the public.

The IAPMR reiterated its support for physiotherapists and occupational therapists as essential members of the rehabilitation team, but maintained that the use of medical titles should be restricted to those with legally recognized medical qualifications.

The case is scheduled for further hearing on December 1st.

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