Exploring the Depths of Doctor-Patient Relationships
As Patients meet doctors, Doctors' patience meets patients!
Explore with me a couple of heartfelt narratives within the healthcare domain, where every person's story carries the essence of empathy, healing to the mind, and wellness to the soul. These tales unveil the human side of medicine, showcasing resilience, kindness, and the profound power of compassion. They serve as gentle reminders of the interconnectedness that enriches our shared human experience.
Doctors hold a revered place in society. When we fall ill, we turn to them, placing our trust in their expertise to heal our bodies and soothe our minds. They bear the immense responsibility of restoring health and hope to those shattered by illness. Yet, the medical field is not without its imperfections. Misunderstandings can arise, especially when treatments don't yield the desired outcomes, sometimes leading to frustration and grief. In some unfortunate instances, the focus shifts from patient care to profit, further straining the delicate doctor-patient relationship. However, amidst this complexity, there are doctors whose unwavering dedication, kindness, and compassion shine brightly, restoring our faith in the goodness of humanity.
A Journey Through the Shadows of
Exploitation
About 28
years ago, when awareness of learning disabilities was not widespread, I was
seeking an assessment for our son during his primary school years. I was
diligently researching and learning about the subject. During this time, a doctor
in the town guided me to his doctor-relative in Bangalore who claimed to have
some wonderful experience, who offered to help. However, instead of providing
clear insights, he seemed more interested in making us his permanent clients.
Despite this, I was lucky enough to find the information and help we needed by
being proactive and willing to learn. Along the way, I encountered more
businessmen exploiting the field for their benefit than genuinely helping the
needy.
While in
Hyderabad, I explored more for a better consultation. This super specialist
doctor ran an NGO to consult, train, and rehabilitate people with special needs,
in addition to his practice, and he had accreditations and funding from the
WHO. He prescribed some medicines, and the next door led me to the pharmacist.
He offered two options: Option A was medicines worth a thousand, and Option B
was double the price. My inquisitiveness and critical mind became alert. To
query this, I went back to the doctor for explanations. He had no qualms in
explaining: he said it was like train coaches—First class, Second class, 3rd
AC, and the sleeper compartment. If you can afford it, you can buy this; if
not, the other one.
To my luck,
I found a door between the two, a passage through which I could slip along with
my son before seeing the pharmacist once again. Later, I learned that he was
testing new medicines for patents. I befriended more people there, and my
interactions with them revealed that there was an underworld there with deaths,
fundraising, and manipulation. There are a few more places I came across in
different areas in my quest to find coping mechanisms for our need. Now, the
focus is not on those who lead you into darkness but on those who are kind and
can kindle light. Not all doctors are the same. Let me share stories of two
other doctors whose professionalism and friendliness either blended or
contrasted.
ONE: The Stoic Specialist
Recently, our son made an appointment for me to meet a doctor (Dr.RK). That experience of the consultation, I will keep for the end.
After a month, I went to meet another senior doctor, whom we will call Dr. EK, in a specialty hospital. (This was for a special test as suggested by Dr. RK).
I awaited my turn on the examination table. As the previous patient
left, Dr. EK approached me.
"Why
have you come to meet me?" he asked brusquely. I began to explain my
referral, attempting to hand over the preliminary test results and referral
letter.
"I
don't want to see all these, tell me your problem," he interrupted.
Despite his
initial abruptness, Dr. EK's demeanor softened as he examined me and reviewed
my reports. He asked detailed questions, made calculations, and ordered several
tests. "This is a serious condition; you cannot ignore this," he
declared, explaining the necessary procedures.
Although his
manner was stern, Dr. EK's competence and thoroughness reassured me of his
expertise. Yet, I couldn't help but wonder if another doctor might have been
more patient-friendly. This thought led me back to Dr. RK, whose initial
diagnosis had aligned with Dr. EK's. It is time to talk about him.
TWO: The Compassionate Doctor
Dr. RK is
one of the most senior-friendly doctors I have ever encountered. Despite being
an MD in General Medicine, his approach was nothing short of extraordinary.
During my first consultation, he conducted initial tests and noted some
concerns. He explained these issues to me with genuine care and compassion,
suggesting another quick scan.
Dr. RK
accompanied me to the testing room, engaging respectfully with the technician,
making me assume the technician was a fellow doctor due to the respect and
friendliness he showed. After the scan, he led me back to his consulting room
and detailed the next steps. Knowing I was traveling the next day, he advised
me to visit a hospital near my hometown for further tests and emphasized
keeping my blood pressure under control.
He walked me
out of his chamber, instructed a technician to prepare a brief referral with
his findings, and waved goodbye before heading off to visit patients in the
ward. Intrigued by his humility and warmth, I later searched for more
information about him online and discovered his impressive profile.
The Profile and the 'Patience'
Dr. RK, BSc,
MBBS, MD (General Medicine), is a distinguished medical professional with a
rich tapestry of experience spanning over three decades. He has held the
prestigious positions of Director and Consultant in Medicine at Military
Hospitals in Jaipur and Shillong, demonstrating his leadership and expertise.
His tenure as a Senior Adviser in Medicine and Non-Invasive Cardiologist at the
Department of Cardiology, Military Hospital Secunderabad, highlights his
specialization in cardiology and commitment to patient care. Since 1990, Dr. RK
has been a consultant in Medicine at numerous zonal hospitals of the Armed
Forces, showcasing his versatility and dedication. His role as Senior
Consultant Medicine at a prominent hospital in [City] further exemplifies his
extensive knowledge and experience.
In addition
to his clinical prowess, Dr. RK has made significant contributions to medical
education. With over five years of teaching experience in Internal Medicine at
Army Hospital, Delhi, and Military Hospital, Jabalpur, and as a Reader in the Department
of General Medicine at the Army College of Dental Sciences, Secunderabad, he
has mentored countless medical students and young doctors.
Dr. RK's
exemplary service has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Chief
of Army Staff Commendation Card in 2006 and the GOC-in-C, Eastern Command
Commendation Card in 2007. His professional affiliations as a life member of
the Association of Physicians of India, the Indian Society of
Electrocardiography, and the [City] Diabetic Club, reflect his commitment to
staying at the forefront of medical advancements.
With a
special interest in critical care, emergencies, and cardio diabetology, Dr. RK
continues to make significant contributions to the field of medicine, ensuring
the highest standards of care for his patients.
Dr. RK is
incredibly kind and caring towards everyone. He takes the time to explain
things personally and goes above and beyond by accompanying patients during
tests. His respect for all staff, including technicians, is impressive. His
extensive experience, awards, teaching background, and professional memberships
demonstrate his dedication and expertise in critical care.
Conclusion: Embracing the Human Touch in Healthcare
These last
two stories show that doctors are not just professionals but people too, with
feelings and challenges. Some doctors, like Dr. RK, show incredible care and
understanding, while others may struggle with communication.
The key
takeaway is that good communication and empathy are vital in healthcare. By
listening to patients and treating them with respect, doctors can create better
experiences and outcomes. We must continue to promote a culture of empathy and
collaboration in healthcare. By doing so, we can build stronger relationships
between patients and doctors and improve overall care for everyone.
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