The Kerala High Court recently passed an interim order restraining physiotherapists and occupational therapists from using the prefix ‘Dr.’ unless they have a recognised medical qualification.

Justice V.G. Arun observed while passing the interim order, “There is an apparent conflict between the provisions of the Indian Medical Degrees Act, 1916, and the clauses in the Competency-Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy.”

The court directed the competent authorities to ensure that the prefix “Dr.” is not used by physiotherapists and occupational therapists without a recognised medical qualification.

The high court noted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had earlier issued an order directing the removal of the prefix “Dr.” for physiotherapists from the Comp

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