Editor,
One of the most heated debates in the healthcare sector today revolves around the use of the prefix ‘Dr’ by physiotherapists and whether the same should be extended to other allied health professionals.
Physiotherapists have long argued that their syllabus is vast, clinically oriented, and directly patient-focused. On this basis, many practitioners use the prefix Dr (PT). However, medical bodies such as the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) oppose the practice, stating that it may confuse the public and blur the distinction between MBBS-qualified doctors and other healthcare professionals.
The controversy, however, raises a broader question: if physiotherapists are permitted to use ‘Dr’, should other healthcare disciplines also claim the same right?
Pharmacy graduates (BPharm) undergo rigorous training in pharmacology, drug design, and clinical pharmacy. Should they then be addressed as Dr (Pharm)?
Nursing graduates (BSc nursing) provide continuous patient care across specialties ranging from surgery to psychiatry. Should they be recognized as Dr (Nsg)?
Medical laboratory science graduates (BMLS) form the backbone of diagnostic medicine, managing biochemistry, microbiology, haematology, and molecular testing. Should they be called Dr (MLS)?
Radiology graduates (BSc radiology) operate advanced imaging technologies such as X-ray, CT, and MRI, and ensure radiation safety in hospitals. Should they then use the prefix Dr (Rad)?
While each profession plays an indispensable role in patient care and is supported by a comprehensive academic curriculum, experts warn that indiscriminate use of the ‘Dr’ title could lead to public confusion.
“The issue is not about respect. Every healthcare profession deserves dignity. The question is one of clarity,” said a senior medical academic. “If the prefix ‘Dr’ is reserved for medical and academic doctorates like MBBS, MD, PhD, & PharmD, then the rule must apply equally. If extended to one branch of healthcare as a courtesy, then it logically should extend to all.”
Observers stress that healthcare is not a competition for titles but a system of teamwork. “Respect should come from service, not from a prefix,” another expert noted.
As the debate continues, many believe it is time for regulators and professional councils to establish a clear policy, before the matter turns into what some describe as a ‘title race’ in healthcare.
Combiflam