Ahmedabad: The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) has clarified that physiotherapists and occupational therapists are not permitted to prescribe or administer allopathic medicines. In a recent notice, the commission warned that any professional found violating this directive or acting beyond their defined scope of practice will face disciplinary and legal action under Section 59 of the NCAHP Act, 2021.Physiotherapists and occupational therapists play a crucial role in patient rehabilitation. Their services are particularly essential for individuals recovering from accidents, surgeries, mobility impairments, or disabilities. Through structured exercise programmes, electrotherapy, screening techniques, and other modern therapeutic interventions, these professionals help patients regain functional independence. They may practice independently or as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team. A minimum graduate-level qualification is mandatory to practice in these fields.
The NCAHP has emphasized that such professionals must strictly operate within their professional boundaries. While they are authorized to provide therapeutic and rehabilitative services, they are not allowed to prescribe allopathic drugs or issue medical prescriptions.Sources indicate that in some instances, a few practitioners allegedly advised patients to take specific medicines or suggested changes to prescriptions originally issued by doctors. In response to such complaints, the commission issued the clarification to prevent unauthorized medical practices and ensure patient safety.
