Physiotherapists Cannot Use the Title 'Doctor': Court and DGHS

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a directive stating that physiotherapists are not entitled to use the title “Doctor” before their names. According to the guideline, only registered medical practitioners are allowed to use the designation.

In a letter, Dr. Sharma highlighted concerns that physiotherapists are not trained as medical doctors and therefore should not use the title “Doctor.” He warned that such use of the title could mislead patients and the general public, potentially promoting unqualified practitioners or quackery.

The DGHS clarified that the use of the title “Doctor” by physiotherapists violates ethical norms in the healthcare sector and could create confusion about their qualifications among patients.