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.