IMA Deplores Kerala High Court Verdict on 'Doctor' Title for Physiotherapists
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed strong disapproval of the Kerala High Court's recent decision permitting physiotherapists to use the 'doctor' prefix, labeling it as an unfortunate development. Based in Thiruvananthapuram, the IMA issued a statement arguing that this ruling could exacerbate the proliferation of fake doctors and mislead the public about genuine medical professionals.
Current Regulations and Public Confusion
Currently, the 'doctor' title is legally reserved for registered medical practitioners in modern medicine, AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), and dental fields, as well as individuals who have earned a PhD. The IMA emphasized that when non-registered medical practitioners adopt this prefix, it creates significant confusion among the public, blurring the lines between qualified healthcare providers and others.
Contrast with Previous Court Rulings
The IMA pointed out a discrepancy in judicial decisions, noting that while courts like the Chennai High Court have previously ruled against non-registered medical practitioners using the 'doctor' title, the Kerala High Court has issued a contrary verdict. This inconsistency, according to the IMA, undermines efforts to maintain clear standards in the medical field and protect patients from potential misinformation.
Call for Government Intervention and Planned Appeal
In response to the verdict, the IMA has urged the government to step in and clarify who is authorized to use the 'doctor' prefix. They have called for the issuance of an official circular to establish unambiguous guidelines, aiming to prevent further confusion and ensure public safety. Additionally, the IMA has announced plans to appeal against the Kerala High Court's decision, as confirmed in an official statement, signaling their commitment to upholding the integrity of medical titles.
