A Conversation with Seniors

In an informal chat with some of our respected seniors, we sought their experienced advice on how to advance our mission to care for the elderly in our society. We received tremendous responses, suggestions, and guidance on a way forward. However, one of the seniors made a striking point: “Firstly, doctors need to regain the credibility and trust of their patients. Since we are ill, we have no option but to seek advice from them.”

This remark surprised me. He explained that a once noble profession has now turned into a business. Many doctors, he asserted, see patients as customers rather than individuals in need of care. Unfortunately, this shift has led to a loss of trust in the medical profession. His words resonated deeply, as they highlighted an undeniable truth: the actions of a few medical practitioners have cast a shadow over the entire field.

I shared this conversation with a friend who is also a doctor. In response, he forwarded me a WhatsApp message outlining the high fees charged by lawyers, the unquestioned costs at petrol pumps and on mobile bills, and the expectation of discounts from doctors. The message seemed convincing but focused solely on material aspects. After reading it, my friend, being a well-wisher, advised me to consider my own interests as well.

I replied, stating that while his message had valid points, it lacked the essence of healing. I explained that most of my patients are elderly and I witness their suffering, pain and emotional breakdowns. They want to be heard. I don’t consider the weight of their pockets or the size of their cars as a measure of my interests. My goal is to listen to them, counsel them, educate them, write their prescription and, by His will, facilitate their healing. I emphasized that we doctors are not the ones who heal; it is only He who heals them.

Being a doctor is not just a profession; it is a responsibility dealing with nothing less than human life. Wisdom, reasoning and the genuine interests of doctors are crucial, but these interests should not overshadow the fundamental idea of healing. When interests cross this line, they turn into vested interests. Due to the actions of some practitioners, people are losing faith and trust in the entire fraternity. It is imperative that we strive to regain the trust and credibility of the people by providing a healing touch to those in pain.

As rightly said by one of the seniors present there, trust is the cornerstone of the doctor-patient relationship. Patients must feel confident that their doctors are acting in their best interests, not driven by profit motives. When this trust is eroded, it can have severe consequences for patient care and health outcomes. The perception of healthcare as a business can lead to skepticism, hesitance to seek medical help, and a breakdown in communication.

We as doctors need to understand that the essence of medicine is healing. This involves not only treating physical ailments but also addressing emotional and psychological needs. Elderly patients, in particular, often require more than just medical intervention; they need empathy, understanding and emotional support. As healthcare providers, we must remember that our role extends beyond prescribing medications.