Doctors hold a unique and respected place in society. They are often seen as miracle workers, capable of reversing the course of illness and bringing hope to the gravest situations. Yet, this perception can lead to unreasonable expectations, as highlighted by the disturbing attack on a Chennai oncologist by a patient’s relatives. Such incidents reflect a deep misunderstanding of the medical profession and its inherent human limitations.
Doctors are not gods; they are trained professionals doing their best to save lives within the constraints of knowledge, technology, and individual patient circumstances. While their expertise often produces remarkable outcomes, they cannot control every variable, nor can they guarantee success in every case. Understanding this fundamental reality is crucial for maintaining trust and respect in the doctor-patient relationship.
The belief that doctors can always achieve a positive outcome stems from a mix of cultural, emotional, and social factors. When faced with a loved one’s illness, families are often consumed by grief and desperation. They may cling to the hope that doctors have the power to prevent even the inevitable. However, this misplaced hope can quickly turn into anger or blame when the outcome is unfavourable.
Such emotions are understandable but must not lead to aggression. Assaulting healthcare workers not only harms the individuals involved but also demoralizes the entire medical community. It creates an atmosphere of fear, making it harder for doctors to provide effective care. No professional can function optimally in an environment where their safety is constantly under threat.
A crucial step in addressing this issue is fostering greater awareness about medicine’s limitations. Hospitals and healthcare institutions should invest in educating patients and their families about the risks and realities of medical procedures. Transparent communication from doctors, where they clearly outline the possible outcomes of treatments, can also help manage expectations.
At the same time, society needs to build a culture of empathy and gratitude for doctors. They work long hours under immense pressure, often sacrificing their own well-being to care for others. During crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the world witnessed their unwavering commitment. Yet, incidents like the one in Chennai remind us of how fragile their support systems can be.
To prevent such assaults, governments must enforce strict laws to protect healthcare workers. In India, the Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Act, 2020, which penalizes violence against healthcare professionals, is a step in the right direction. However, robust implementation and ongoing legal reforms are essential to ensure these protections are meaningful.
Ultimately, both the medical community and society must work together to bridge this gap in understanding. Doctors must continue to practice with compassion and clear communication, while patients and their families must approach medical care with realistic expectations and trust. Doctors are not divine beings, but their work often feels like a miracle. Recognizing their humanity, rather than deifying or vilifying them, is the key to a healthier, more harmonious relationship between doctors and the communities they serve.