“Physiotherapists Are Not Doctors: Why Using ‘Dr’ Prefix Could Mislead Patients”
In a recent move to safeguard patient awareness and prevent professional confusion, the Directorate General of health Services (DGHS) has directed changes in the 2025 physiotherapy curriculum. The issue: the proposed use of the “Dr” prefix by physiotherapy graduates. Here’s what you need to know:
1. No ‘Dr’ for Physiotherapists
The DGHS clarified that physiotherapists are not trained as medical doctors. Using the “Dr” prefix could mislead patients, create confusion, and potentially encourage quackery.
2. The Original Curriculum Proposal
The Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy, 2025, suggested that graduates could use:
Dr [Name], PT
This suggestion sparked objections from professional groups, including the Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR).
3. Referral, Not Primary Care
Physiotherapists are expected to work under referrals from registered medical doctors, not act as primary care providers. The DGHS emphasized this distinction to maintain public safety and trust.
4. Court Rulings Against Misuse of ‘Dr.’
Multiple courts have consistently ruled against non-doctors using the “Dr.” title:
Patna high court (2003)
Bengaluru court (2020)
Madras high court (2022)
Medical councils, including the tamil Nadu Medical Council, have issued similar advisories.
5. Legal Risks
Using “Dr” without a recognized medical degree violates the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916. Legal action can be initiated against those misusing the title.
6. Corrective Action by DGHS
The DGHS has directed that the syllabus be corrected immediately. They also suggested exploring a more appropriate, respectful title for physiotherapy graduates that does not create confusion for the public.
7. Why It Matters
Patient safety and clarity of roles in healthcare are critical. Misrepresentation of qualifications, even unintentionally, can have serious consequences, especially when patients trust someone to provide medical guidance.
🔥 Bottom Line: Physiotherapists play a vital role in healthcare, but clarity is key. Using “Dr” without a medical degree is misleading, illegal, and potentially dangerous — the DGHS is making sure the public is not left in the dark.
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