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Making doctors better

BMJ 2018; 363 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k4147 (Published 03 October 2018) Cite this as: BMJ 2018;363:k4147

Rapid Response:

Re: Making doctors better

Undeniably the life of doctors has become increasingly complex and complicated. Ways and means and methods to improve and modify the 'system (s) ' favourably are at work the world over. If 'death' tends to be surrounded by allegation of mistreatment and negligence too often , it denies the doctors of fairness ; doctors dutifully do the best under the circumstances and rarely claim credit , unlike some other professions. But there are few facts that doctors too need to consider. a) though doctoring is considered a 24 hour affair , too many of them may not realise that sound relations with parents , spouse and progeny constitute a stabilising force and a positive effect on general well being . b) being a doctor need not be an exclusive and unending exercise for promotions , enhanced qualifications, fellowships, honours and the like if one finds difficult coping up. Nurturing and asserting ego in every situation may not go well with mental well being. c) Becoming professional and rational may come easy but maturity , poise, balance, optimism takes years as time passes by ; the chosen may turn philosophical and even 'spiritual' at the sunset of life particularly when society considers that doctors never 'retire'. In short , personal life and attitudes do contribute to total well being of doctors as well . Dr Murar E Yeolekar. ( former Director , M E & R /Dean ) Mumbai.

Competing interests: No competing interests

05 October 2018
Murar E Yeolekar
Professor of Internal Medicine
K J Somaiya Medical College and Hospital
Eastern Express Highway, Sion, Mumbai 400022.tt