Beyond the White Coat: The Reality of Being a Doctor in Today’s World As a doctor, I have spent over two decades practicing medicine, specifically in the field of ophthalmology. Over these years, I have encountered many different perceptions about doctors, the medical field, and the doctor-patient relationship. Some of these perceptions are rooted in tradition, while others are based on misunderstandings or exaggerated expectations. I feel it's important to address the myths that continue to shape the public's view of the medical profession and share a more realistic perspective based on my experiences. There is a widely held belief that the medical profession is the noblest of all. While I’m honored to be seen this way, I firmly believe that every profession is noble when done with sincerity and integrity. Whether you're a teacher, a soldier, a shopkeeper, or a tailor, what defines the nobility of a profession is not its title, but the honesty and hard work put into it. Every profession has its own set of responsibilities. A careless doctor can endanger a life, just as a negligent driver or engineer can cause catastrophic harm. We are all interconnected, and it’s important to recognize that every profession holds its own value. One of the most persistent myths I’ve encountered is the idea that doctors should not care about money, because medicine is seen as a service to humanity. While it’s true that the primary goal of a doctor is to help people, we must also acknowledge the practical realities of running a medical practice. Maintaining a clinic, acquiring modern medical equipment, hiring and training staff, and keeping up with medical advances are all incredibly costly. Like any other profession, the financial aspect is a part of the work. This doesn’t mean that doctors are chasing after money; it simply means that fair compensation is necessary to maintain a high standard of care. Just like any other professional who works hard, it is not wrong for doctors to earn money for their work. The reality is that without financial stability, we wouldn’t be able to provide the level of care that patients expect and deserve. Another common myth is that doctors must be perfectly honest all the time. While we strive to uphold the highest ethical standards, it’s important to understand that doctors are human too. We come from the same world as everyone else and face the same challenges. Yes, there may be a few individuals in every profession who do not uphold the highest moral standards, and the medical field is no exception. However, I believe that doctors, as a community, maintain an exceptionally high level of integrity. In fact, I would argue that, as a class, doctors often exhibit more ethical behavior than many other sectors. We are driven by the desire to help people, and this is something I see every day in my colleagues and in my own practice. One of the more frustrating myths I’ve come across is the idea that doctors do not always understand the disease they are treating, and that treatments are often based on trial and error. The doctor-patient relationship is built on trust. Medical science is constantly evolving, and no two patients respond in exactly the same way to a particular treatment. Medicine is a lifelong learning process, and part of that involves making adjustments to treatment plans as we monitor a patient’s progress. This is not a sign of incompetence or uncertainty—it is part of the scientific process of healing. Additionally, the cost of medications and tests often comes under scrutiny. The truth is that doctors do not control the prices of medications; this responsibility lies with pharmaceutical companies and government regulations. And while tests may seem excessive at times, they are often necessary for a patient’s safety, much like wearing a seatbelt while driving. Another topic that comes up frequently is the cost of medical care. Some believe that treatment costs are rising irrationally. While it's true that healthcare costs have increased over the years, it’s important to put this into perspective. Medical advancements, particularly in technology and equipment, are happening at an unprecedented rate. These innovations are often costly but necessary to provide the best possible care. In comparison to Western countries, treatment costs in India are still significantly lower, which is why medical tourism has flourished here. Many people from around the world come to India for affordable, high-quality medical care. The rising costs are a reflection of the advanced technologies and treatments now available to patients, and this is a global phenomenon, not one isolated to India. Perhaps the most pervasive myth is the idea that doctors are “next to God.” While the work we do is often life-changing, we are not divine beings. We get tired, we fall sick, and we experience stress just like anyone else. There are times when the pressure of work and the high expectations from patients can be overwhelming. I’ve had patients come to me expecting miracles, but it’s important to understand that doctors, while highly trained and skilled, are working within the limitations of human knowledge and technology. We do our best with the tools and information available to us, but we are not perfect, and we should not be expected to be. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the relationships I’ve built with my patients. The doctor-patient relationship is founded on trust and mutual respect. Without this trust, the healing process is compromised. When patients trust their doctors, they are more likely to follow treatment plans, ask questions, and take an active role in their own healthcare. I have always believed that my responsibility goes beyond treating a patient’s disease; it’s about caring for the person as a whole, listening to their concerns, and offering reassurance during difficult times. In my book, "An Eye for the Sky", (Link: https://www.amazon.in/Eye-Sky-Surgeon-Helped-Millions/dp/0143459031) published by Penguin Enterprise, I share the story of my journey through ophthalmology and the medical innovations that have shaped modern eye care. The book reflects not only the technical aspects of my career but also the human side—the joy of seeing a patient regain their sight, the challenges of difficult surgeries, and the importance of continuous learning and compassion in medical practice. It is through these experiences that I’ve come to realize that the true essence of being a doctor lies in the relationships we build and the trust we earn from our patients. In conclusion, the medical profession, like any other, comes with its share of myths and misconceptions. It’s important to recognize that doctors are human beings who work tirelessly to improve the lives of their patients, often under immense pressure. We are not infallible, but we are dedicated. The bond between a doctor and a patient is built on trust, respect, and understanding, and it is this bond that forms the foundation of effective medical care. https://www.amazon.in/Eye-Sky-Surgeon-Helped-Millions/dp/0143459031 #SuViEyeHospital #AnEyeForTheSky #MedicalMyths #DoctorsPerspective #HealthcareTruths #PatientCare #DoctorPatientRelationship #MedicalProfession #Ophthalmology #TrustInDoctors #HealthcareIndia #RespectForDoctors #MedicalEthics #HealthcareInnovation #CompassionInMedicine #EyeCareSpecialist #PenguinBooksIndia #EyeForTheSky