Physiotherapists Can Now Use 'Dr.' Prefix: Kerala High Court Rules Independent Practice
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News18•24-01-2026, 14:12
Physiotherapists Can Now Use 'Dr.' Prefix: Kerala High Court Rules Independent Practice
- •Physiotherapists nationwide are now permitted to use the 'Doctor' (Dr.) prefix, a significant victory ending a long-standing debate.
- •The Kerala High Court affirmed physiotherapists' right to use 'Dr.' based on their degree and qualifications, provided they specify their specialization.
- •This ruling grants physiotherapists independent practice rights, eliminating the need for a general physician's prescription or referral for diagnosis and treatment.
- •The decision elevates the physiotherapy profession's dignity, making it comparable to MBBS in terms of status and career prospects.
- •While allowed to use 'Dr.' and practice independently, physiotherapists' scope remains limited to physical therapy, rehabilitation, and exercise, not surgery or allopathic medicine.
Why It Matters: Physiotherapists gain 'Dr.' prefix and independent practice rights, elevating their professional status and autonomy.
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