Archive · 20 Sep 2025
FAIMA Objects to Physiotherapists Using 'Doctor' Title
Some doctors don't want physiotherapists to be called 'Doctor.'
A group called FAIMA, representing doctors, is worried that if physiotherapists and other healthcare workers use the title 'Doctor', it will confuse people about who the actual doctors are.
Physiotherapists argue that they should be called 'Doctor' because they've studied hard and have special knowledge.
The government initially said physiotherapists could use the title, then changed its mind, and then changed its mind again.
FAIMA is now asking the government to stop physiotherapists from using 'Doctor.'
FAIMA opposes physiotherapists using the title 'Doctor.'
FAIMA has written to DGHS to withdraw permission.
DGHS initially cancelled, then reinstated, the permission.
FAIMA fears public confusion if other healthcare professionals use the title.
Physiotherapists defend the use of 'Doctor' based on qualifications.
- Who
- FAIMA and physiotherapists
- What
- Disagreement over physiotherapists using the title 'Doctor'
- When
- April 2025 (approval), September 9 (cancellation), within 24 hours (reinstatement)
- Where
- Mumbai, India
- Why
- FAIMA opposes due to potential public confusion. Physiotherapists argue for the title based on academic achievement and professional recognition.
FAIMA's Concerns
Physiotherapists' Stance
Use of 'Doctor' Title
FAIMA's Concerns
FAIMA believes the 'Doctor' title should be restricted to qualified medical practitioners to avoid public confusion.
Physiotherapists' Stance
Physiotherapists argue that the title is deserved based on academic qualifications, clinical expertise, and professional recognition.
- Organization Objecting
- FAIMA (Federation of All India Medical Association)
- Issue
- Physiotherapists using 'Doctor' prefix
- Authority Addressed
- DGHS (Director General of Health Services)
- DGHS Initial Action
- Approved use of 'Dr.' prefix for physiotherapists
- DGHS Subsequent Actions
- Cancelled, then reinstated the approval