In the Sunday Series , today we bring to a  write-up from our archives where Dr. ME Yeolekar, a noted academician and Doctor of General Medicine with more than 39 years of experience shares a 5-point principle and core values that he follows as a doctor.

What is happening around?

Incidents, happenings, and news are galore in the medical world of India, particularly in recent times. Formation of the National Medical Commission, NEET, Bridge courses and the parity of Ayurveda/Homeopathy graduates, alleged fall in standards in UG and PG medical education, 'profiteering' by corporate hospitals and 'deterioration' of services in the public health sector, and regular incidents of assault on doctors and attacks on nursing homes and small private hospitals; these and much more have contributed to a tense climate for doctors and other health professionals in the country.

The sensationalism of such incidents by the media has also been causing provocation, anger, and resentment within the medical community. A sense of helplessness and despair seems to be creeping in due to the repetitive nature of certain incidents and is setting the stage for protest.

I believe...

Moreover, any advice or 'sermonising' easily stands the chance of being bitterly criticised or trolled.

A state of apprehension and even anxiety/stress becomes evident depending on where one practices or performs clinical duties. Even within the medical community, the MD/ DNB equivalence debate sparks sharp reactions.

Under these circumstances, introspection is necessary.

These five principles come to my mind as a clinician, teacher, and ex-administrator. I am sure there may be some more.

I take this opportunity to wish my colleagues all the best on Doctors’ Day!

Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

This article was originally published on 06.07.18