The Noble Responsibilities of Senior Doctors

“Leaving a Good Legacy for Young Medicos to Follow Ethos of Medical Practice, Empathy, and Nobility”

Being a doctor is not just a job; it’s a noble calling that demands both technical expertise and a deep commitment to community well-being. Senior doctors, with their wealth of experience, carry a unique set of responsibilities to the community. This piece highlights the multifaceted duties senior doctors owe to society, emphasising the importance of maintaining medical practice ethos, showcasing empathy, and embodying nobility in their actions.

Hippocratic Oath and Responsibilities:

Medicos, upon entry, take the Hippocratic Oath, pledging to protect and promote health, treat patients with respect, work collaboratively, update skills, teach others, act honestly, and maintain confidentiality. These commitments apply to all doctors, regardless of seniority. Senior doctors, occupying a privileged position, extend their responsibilities beyond clinical expertise into the ethical, empathetic, and noble dimensions of medical practice.

Upholding Ethical Standards:

Senior doctors are entrusted with upholding the highest medical practice standards. This involves maintaining clinical excellence while adhering to ethical principles. Transparency, honesty, and integrity are crucial. Serving as role models, senior doctors illustrate the importance of trust, effective communication, informed consent, and evidence-based medicine.

Demonstrating Empathy:

Empathy is central to patient-centred care, and senior doctors must instill this quality in the next generation. They can impart the importance of empathy through actions and teachings, actively engaging in educational initiatives that highlight the humanistic aspects of medicine.

Embodying Nobility:

Nobility in medical practice extends beyond technical skills; it involves a commitment to the greater good. Senior doctors should contribute to bettering the community through advocating for healthcare policies, engaging in public health initiatives, and participating in medical research and innovation.

Leaving a Positive Legacy:

Senior doctors leave a lasting impact on the medical community. Through mentorship, they can pass on clinical knowledge and the wisdom gained from navigating the complexities of the field. Creating a supportive environment within healthcare institutions and fostering a culture of teamwork, continuous learning, and patient-centred care ensures a positive legacy.

Implementing Quality Improvement:

Participating in quality improvement and accountability in patient safety standards is crucial. Senior doctors should actively engage in developing and regulating medical practices, advocating for health needs, supporting research, and engaging with the community and stakeholders.

Reclaiming Trust in Doctor-Patient Relationships:

Rebuilding trust in doctor-patient relationships is a priority. Senior doctors, through their professional forums and groups, bear a unique responsibility to the community, encompassing patient care and ethical leadership.

In essence, senior doctors play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare, setting an example for aspiring medical professionals and contributing to the well-being of society.

(Dr. Fiaz Fazili. Sr Consultant surgeon & a National and International Expert on Healthcare Policy, planning and standards to improve patient care in low- and middle-income states)