Why Are Physiotherapists Not Allowed to Use the ‘Dr.’ Prefix?
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Synopsis
The DGHS has made it clear that physiotherapists cannot use the ‘Dr.’ prefix, citing legal restrictions and the potential for public misunderstanding. This decision aims to protect patients and uphold the integrity of medical titles.
Key Takeaways
- Physiotherapists are not medical doctors.
- Using the ‘Dr.’ prefix is legally prohibited.
- Physiotherapists should only treat referred patients.
- Public understanding of healthcare titles is critical.
- Ethical standards in healthcare remain a priority.
New Delhi, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Directorate General of Health Services has released a notice instructing physiotherapists to refrain from using the ‘Dr.’ prefix, asserting that they are not licensed medical doctors.
In a correspondence dated September 9, DGHS Dr. Sunita Sharma emphasized that utilizing the ‘Dr.’ title constitutes a legal breach of the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916.
“Physiotherapists lack the training to act as medical doctors and, as such, should not adopt the 'Dr.' prefix, as it can mislead patients and the public, potentially resulting in quackery,” Sharma stated in her letter to Dr. Dilip Bhanushali, National President of the IMA.
“Physiotherapists should not engage in primary care and are only qualified to treat referred patients, as they are not equipped to diagnose medical conditions, which could deteriorate with improper physiotherapy treatments,” she added.
The letter referenced previous legal rulings and advisory notifications from various courts, including the Patna and Madras High Courts, as well as medical councils across the nation, which forbade physiotherapists and occupational therapists from utilizing the 'Dr.' prefix.
Earlier in April, the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) declared that physiotherapists may now use the ‘Dr’ title as a prefix and ‘PT’ as a suffix to their names.
This decision was part of the rollout of the 2025 Physiotherapy Curriculum by the NCAHP under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
“It is significant to note that the Ethics Committee of the Council (Paramedical and Physiotherapy Central Council Bill, 2007) previously determined that the title 'Doctor' (Dr.) may solely be used by registered medical practitioners of Modern Medicine, Ayurveda, Homoeopathy, and Unani. Other health professionals, including nursing and paramedical staff, are prohibited from using this title,” the DGHS indicated.
The letter further remarked that any infringement “invokes action under Section 7 of the IMA Act for contravening Sections 6 & 6A,” as the legal opinion was endorsed by the Council in its meeting in March 2004.
“It is hereby mandated that the application of the 'Dr.' prefix for physiotherapists in the Competency Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy Approved Syllabus 2025 be eliminated immediately. A more suitable and respectful title should be considered for physiotherapy graduates and postgraduates, ensuring clarity for patients and the public,” the letter concluded.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the significance of this directive from the DGHS. Upholding the integrity of medical titles is crucial for patient safety and trust in healthcare. This ruling clarifies professional boundaries and ensures that patients receive accurate information about their healthcare providers. It reflects a commitment to ethical standards in the medical field.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't physiotherapists use the ‘Dr.’ prefix?
Physiotherapists are not trained as medical doctors and using the ‘Dr.’ prefix misleads patients, which could lead to quackery.
What are the legal implications of using the ‘Dr.’ prefix?
Using the ‘Dr.’ prefix can result in legal action under the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916.
Can physiotherapists treat primary care patients?
No, physiotherapists should only treat referred patients as they are not trained to diagnose medical conditions.
