The title ‘Dr’ holds significant importance in India, symbolizing professional expertise and credibility. However, a recent directive has sparked debate over who is legally entitled to use this prefix. On September 9, 2025, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) issued a circular stating that physiotherapists cannot use the title ‘Doctor’, as they are not medical doctors.

Following this announcement, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) asserted that the title should remain reserved for practitioners of modern medicine and AYUSH systems.

Interestingly, DGHS withdrew its order the very next day, citing the need for further review. This reversal has reignited a long-standing debate around the legal and professional use of the ‘Dr’ title in India.

The National Commission for Allied Health and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act, 2021 granted physiotherapists autonomous status as primary care providers. It also gave them the right to use ‘Dr’ as a prefix and ‘PT’ as a suffix. The recent DGHS directive, however, contradicted this provision, leading to widespread protests from the physiotherapy community.

Physiotherapists argue that their years of training and alignment with global norms justify the use of the title. They insist it reflects their medical expertise rather than an attempt to imitate doctors.

As per existing laws and professional guidelines, the following categories are entitled to use the title:

• Modern Medicine Doctors – Registered under the National Medical Commission (NMC) (MBBS, MD, MS, DNB)

• AYUSH Practitioners – Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Siddha, Unani, Yoga, and Naturopathy doctors

• Dentists – Recognized under the Dentist Act (BDS, MDS)

• Veterinarians – Qualified with BVSc, MVSc degrees

• Psychiatrists – MBBS with MD/DNB in Psychiatry

• PhD Holders – Allowed to use the prefix only in academic and research contexts

The law clearly bars certain professions from using the title, including:

• Clinical psychologists and counselors

• Dieticians and nutritionists

• Fitness coaches or wellness trainers

• Nurses and lab technicians

The issue reflects a broader struggle over professional identity and recognition. While medical doctors argue that unrestricted use of the title could confuse patients, physiotherapists believe it affirms their rightful place as primary healthcare providers.

The final clarity is expected once the DGHS completes its review and issues a conclusive notification. Until then, the debate over “Who deserves to be called ‘Doctor’ in India” is set to continue.