Points2Ponder: A Doctor's Heart: Embracing Humanity in Healthcare

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.