It is being popularly suggested that Rhonda Byrne’s book ‘Magic’ apparently changed countless lives. According to this remarkable author, ‘Gratitude’ served as an essential element for the ultimate triumph in all domains of life. Thus it is natural to feel contented for all the achievement one have made in life. But only when they are appreciated.
My experience as a health care provider in Public Hospital had taught me a lot regarding patients’ behaviors. Whenever the doctor was faced with a hot-tempered patient, one could become disdainful. From the very beginning of interaction, the rigidness within such patient could be felt. Even if the doctor was showing them his best behavior, all efforts could completely fell flat.
In another example, there were patients that entered the office with much fickle-mindedness. It seemed as if they were ready to pull down one’s confidence. Speaking gruesome remarks recently “heard” from their peers or family, was an easy way to spot such patients. This pseudo behavior must be inspired from the false projection in media regarding the provision of care in Public Health Sector. It was widely opinioned in media that Government sectors were never up to the mark. Hence laymen easily got influenced. The mindset of showing immense arrogance to professionals, made them think that their treatment might get done fast. In such way the ‘busy’ healthcare staff would definitely pay them attention. Hence in other words, the more you hurt your vocal cords, the faster your work would get done. Such seldom act of atrocity had tend to become lot more common, making it more of a general practice these days! Nevertheless, the display of aggression in any sort, whether verbal or physical, never really worked. Many of the healthcare staff were not even bothered by the heft amount of treatment fees patients paid. For them all patients are equal.
The mindset of showing immense arrogance to professionals, made them think that their treatment might get done fast. In such way the ‘busy’ healthcare staff would definitely pay them attention.
Due to such ill-treatment, health care profession had turned into a rough place to work for many. The lessening of expectations from patients or any professional development as such, could be included as one of the occupational hazard. Inconsiderate experiences made doctors think about their patients less of humans, more as source of monetary income.
The only way to break this curse of vicious cycle tend to be farfetched. In my opinion a magic spell of ‘gratification’ could make this situation better. Supposedly, using the so called ‘law of gratitude’, a patient visited their local health care provider. They were carrying a smile, positive attitude and talked in a gentle tone. This would compel the doctor to pay more attention to their presenting complaint. Despite of doctor’s initial response, the patient’s positivity would definitely make himself feel heard. A gesture of politeness and inquiry regarding doctor’s well-being would make a lasting impression. Such practice would make health care professionals happy on emotional level. Doctors would fell more energetic and spiritually satisfied with their job, hence could lead to better performance.
Despite of doctor’s initial response, the patient’s positivity would definitely make himself feel heard. A gesture of politeness and inquiry regarding doctor’s well-being would make a lasting impression. Such practice would make health care professionals happy on emotional level.
Doctors at time could be unresponsive to patient’s needs. This could be attribute to long working hours and overburdening of responsibilities imposed on them. But as far as professionalism is concerned, even the most learned health care providers should stick with the policy of positive attitude. One’s skill of treatment is more judged by your attitude than your medicines. This might sound over the top but, yes it’s true!
One efficient way of curbing such practice could be through community interactive sessions. Such conversations would not only be beneficial for eradicating ambiguity among patients of health care delivery system but also would acknowledge all the hurdles professionals had to overcome to continue their medical profession. A lesson of tolerance would come in handy for many health care professionals.
Whether doctors or lay-person, they all should be obliged to pay respect, on ethical and religious basis. Life could not be a bed of roses for anyone. Compassion would not only change the view of treatment but rather would set us on a journey of selfless endeavour. This simply could make oneself better in all aspects of profession!
So next time whether you are at receiving or giving end of the treatment, just take it lightly. Appreciate and tolerate the work of others, and finally experience the change in your life after saying, “Thank you”.
-Written by Dr. Anis Ur Rehman
Dr Muattar Hanif
The author is Editor at Dental News Pakistan and can be reached at newsdesk@medicalnewsgroup.com.pk
