The Best and Worst of Being a Doctor in India: A Complex Yet Respected Profession

Every profession has its challenges and rewards, and the medical profession is no exception. In India, being a doctor can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of complexities. Understanding these dynamics can help aspiring doctors make more informed decisions. This article explores the best and worst aspects of being a doctor in India.

The Best Thing About Being a Doctor in India

The best thing about being a doctor in India is the immense respect that the medical profession commands. Despite the challenges, doctors in India are still seen as noble and respected figures. This respect is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and society, leading to a sense of pride and fulfillment among medical professionals.

People look up to doctors and often turn to them for guidance and support. This is especially true during family gatherings and social events, where mentioning one's profession as a doctor often garners instant respect and admiration. This is something that many other professions do not enjoy. Factors such as the constant influx of students and applicants for medical seats (which are relatively few compared to the number of aspirants) further highlight the prestigious nature of the medical profession in India.

The Worst Thing About Being a Doctor in India

However, the respect that doctors receive in India can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Due to the extreme reverence for the medical profession, patients and their families often attribute almost god-like qualities to doctors. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and a sense that doctors have the power to cure anything and everything. Additionally, the high expectations placed on doctors can sometimes make their work environment stressful and demanding.

The burden of being seen as a provider of absolute healthcare leads to a situation where doctors may feel pressured to take on responsibilities that they are not equipped to handle. This can result in burnout, stress, and even violence against doctors. Patients and their families might blame doctors for any misfortune or disappointment, which can be incredibly taxing emotionally and physically.

Case Study: A Surgeon's Experience

A personal example from one of my experiences further illustrates these points. In 2012, I underwent bypass surgery at IVY Hospital in Mohali. Prior to the surgery, an angiography revealed that my left coronary artery (LCA) supplying blood to the left ventricle was 95% blocked. During the surgery at Fortis Mohali, the surgeon announced that the LCA was submerged and could not be grafted. Despite the initial diagnosis, the hospital discharged me with no further mention of the bypass surgery. After ten years, I am still feeling healthy and my heart is functioning well. I strongly believe that the LCA was totally blocked and no bypass surgery was necessary. This incident highlights the risks associated with the misconceptions surrounding the medical profession in India.

Impact of Societal Expectations on Medical Practice

The high respect and the high expectations that come with the medical profession in India can have significant implications on patient care and the overall healthcare system. Doctors often feel the pressure to deliver miraculous results, and when these expectations are not met, it can lead to dissatisfaction and even violence. This social phenomenon known as 'doctor violence' is a serious issue that further compounds the challenges faced by healthcare providers.

While it's commendable that the medical profession is still held in such high regard, it's crucial to address the unrealistic expectations and the associated pressures. Promoting realistic patient expectations and understanding the limitations of medical science can help mitigate these issues. Doctors should be seen as skilled professionals rather than as infallible beings, and patients should be educated about the realities of medical practice.

In conclusion, being a doctor in India is a profession that combines the best aspects of societal respect with the challenges of unrealistic expectations. It is a role that carries tremendous responsibility and requires a deep understanding of both the positive and negative aspects of the profession. By addressing these issues, we can foster a more respectful and realistic approach to healthcare in India.