Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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nam_dayal
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Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

Post by nam_dayal »

In this age of agenda and misinformation wrecking the balance on the internet, I think it’s so sad to see the doctors becoming the victim of it all. When I started reading Barbara Galutia’s ‘Surviving the Business of Healthcare’, I felt so moved by her intent to help others as a medical practitioner. It’s a perspective, I believe, the whole internet needs right now. How do you think the people who are illiterate due to circumstances can be approached so that they would stop attacking the doctors?

A thinker from the third-world here :|
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cduran21
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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I've worked in a health clinic in the midwest that was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (as a pharmacy student) and they have programs for those who are illiterate. As most of the patients came in spoke Spanish and so labels were printed in Spanish as were the instructions on all medications. However it came to light that they were not taking the medications as prescribed and that's when we learned that they could not read in Spanish either. We as a clinic cater to MANY diabetics and so we designed a chart based off of colors to tell the patient when to check their blood sugar and when to take each different kind of insulin or other medications based on the color and record whether or not they did it and have the families help out as well.

The problem is that it takes so much more time and the healthcare system here in American isn't necessarily big on taking a lot of time to really work with the patients, that's mostly the nurses or other staff. You're absolutely right in saying that doctors are being victimized, but it's more of a systemwide problem. We need to redefine what doctors do and the only way is to get more doctors to think like the author - that we as providers are caregivers. We can't be effective medical professionals if we continue to view patients as charts rather than people. Healing is holistic, we should know the person we are treating and be able to recognize if they are illiterate and then be willing to take the time to move mountains to achieve the highest level of care.
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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cduran21 wrote: June 7th, 2021, 5:50 pm I've worked in a health clinic in the midwest that was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (as a pharmacy student) and they have programs for those who are illiterate. As most of the patients came in spoke Spanish and so labels were printed in Spanish as were the instructions on all medications. However it came to light that they were not taking the medications as prescribed and that's when we learned that they could not read in Spanish either. We as a clinic cater to MANY diabetics and so we designed a chart based off of colors to tell the patient when to check their blood sugar and when to take each different kind of insulin or other medications based on the color and record whether or not they did it and have the families help out as well.

The problem is that it takes so much more time and the healthcare system here in American isn't necessarily big on taking a lot of time to really work with the patients, that's mostly the nurses or other staff. You're absolutely right in saying that doctors are being victimized, but it's more of a systemwide problem. We need to redefine what doctors do and the only way is to get more doctors to think like the author - that we as providers are caregivers. We can't be effective medical professionals if we continue to view patients as charts rather than people. Healing is holistic, we should know the person we are treating and be able to recognize if they are illiterate and then be willing to take the time to move mountains to achieve the highest level of care.
Uummm... Nurses and staff are part of the healthcare system, BTW.
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
Well! Apart from online attacks (verbal and so on), there have been several physical attacks (you can look into the situation in India) on doctors here.
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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cduran21 wrote: June 7th, 2021, 5:50 pm I've worked in a health clinic in the midwest that was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (as a pharmacy student) and they have programs for those who are illiterate. As most of the patients came in spoke Spanish and so labels were printed in Spanish as were the instructions on all medications. However it came to light that they were not taking the medications as prescribed and that's when we learned that they could not read in Spanish either. We as a clinic cater to MANY diabetics and so we designed a chart based off of colors to tell the patient when to check their blood sugar and when to take each different kind of insulin or other medications based on the color and record whether or not they did it and have the families help out as well.

The problem is that it takes so much more time and the healthcare system here in American isn't necessarily big on taking a lot of time to really work with the patients, that's mostly the nurses or other staff. You're absolutely right in saying that doctors are being victimized, but it's more of a systemwide problem. We need to redefine what doctors do and the only way is to get more doctors to think like the author - that we as providers are caregivers. We can't be effective medical professionals if we continue to view patients as charts rather than people. Healing is holistic, we should know the person we are treating and be able to recognize if they are illiterate and then be willing to take the time to move mountains to achieve the highest level of care.
That's a very constructive and benign way of looking at it. I'm glad we could get a former healthcare worker's opinion on this :)
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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nam_dayal wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:31 am
Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
Well! Apart from online attacks (verbal and so on), there have been several physical attacks (you can look into the situation in India) on doctors here.
Interesting. I wasn't aware of that (obviously). Any idea why some people are attacking medical personnel there?
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the impact of misinformation and its consequences on the medical profession. It is indeed disheartening to see doctors and other healthcare professionals being targeted as a result of the growing tide of misinformation and mistrust.

To address this issue and help protect those who may not have access to reliable information, several approaches can be considered:
  • Community outreach and education: Local healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders can collaborate to organize outreach programs and educational workshops. These initiatives can help bridge the gap between healthcare professionals and those who may be skeptical of their intentions, fostering trust and understanding.

    Media campaigns: Radio, television, and print media still play a significant role in many communities, particularly in regions where internet access is limited. Healthcare professionals can collaborate with media outlets to create public awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of trusting and supporting doctors and the healthcare system.

    Leveraging local influencers: Community leaders, religious figures, and respected individuals can play a vital role in spreading accurate information and countering misinformation. By partnering with these influential figures, healthcare providers can amplify their message and promote a more positive attitude towards the medical profession.

    Encourage dialogue: Creating platforms and opportunities for open dialogue between healthcare professionals and the public can help address concerns, dispel myths, and build trust. Town hall meetings, panel discussions, and other interactive events can provide a space for individuals to ask questions, share their experiences, and gain a better understanding of the healthcare system.
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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cduran21 wrote: June 7th, 2021, 5:50 pm I've worked in a health clinic in the midwest that was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (as a pharmacy student) and they have programs for those who are illiterate. As most of the patients came in spoke Spanish and so labels were printed in Spanish as were the instructions on all medications. However it came to light that they were not taking the medications as prescribed and that's when we learned that they could not read in Spanish either. We as a clinic cater to MANY diabetics and so we designed a chart based off of colors to tell the patient when to check their blood sugar and when to take each different kind of insulin or other medications based on the color and record whether or not they did it and have the families help out as well.

The problem is that it takes so much more time and the healthcare system here in American isn't necessarily big on taking a lot of time to really work with the patients, that's mostly the nurses or other staff. You're absolutely right in saying that doctors are being victimized, but it's more of a systemwide problem. We need to redefine what doctors do and the only way is to get more doctors to think like the author - that we as providers are caregivers. We can't be effective medical professionals if we continue to view patients as charts rather than people. Healing is holistic, we should know the person we are treating and be able to recognize if they are illiterate and then be willing to take the time to move mountains to achieve the highest level of care.
It is commendable that your clinic was able to devise a color-based chart system to help patients better understand their medication regimen, showcasing the importance of innovative and empathetic approaches to patient care.

I completely agree with you that the healthcare system needs to shift its focus towards a more holistic and patient-centered approach. Doctors, along with other healthcare providers, should be encouraged to see patients as individuals with unique needs and circumstances, rather than just focusing on the medical aspects of their condition.

To support this shift, medical education and training programs should emphasize the importance of effective communication, cultural competence, and empathy in providing quality care. Additionally, healthcare organizations should consider implementing policies that allow healthcare professionals more time to engage with patients and address their concerns in a comprehensive manner.

By fostering a more compassionate and patient-centered healthcare system, we can help build trust between patients and medical professionals, and ultimately, improve the overall quality of care provided.
“There is only one thing a philosopher can be relied upon to do, and that is to contradict other philosophers”

– William James
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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LuckyR wrote: June 8th, 2021, 2:59 am
cduran21 wrote: June 7th, 2021, 5:50 pm I've worked in a health clinic in the midwest that was a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) (as a pharmacy student) and they have programs for those who are illiterate. As most of the patients came in spoke Spanish and so labels were printed in Spanish as were the instructions on all medications. However it came to light that they were not taking the medications as prescribed and that's when we learned that they could not read in Spanish either. We as a clinic cater to MANY diabetics and so we designed a chart based off of colors to tell the patient when to check their blood sugar and when to take each different kind of insulin or other medications based on the color and record whether or not they did it and have the families help out as well.

The problem is that it takes so much more time and the healthcare system here in American isn't necessarily big on taking a lot of time to really work with the patients, that's mostly the nurses or other staff. You're absolutely right in saying that doctors are being victimized, but it's more of a systemwide problem. We need to redefine what doctors do and the only way is to get more doctors to think like the author - that we as providers are caregivers. We can't be effective medical professionals if we continue to view patients as charts rather than people. Healing is holistic, we should know the person we are treating and be able to recognize if they are illiterate and then be willing to take the time to move mountains to achieve the highest level of care.
Uummm... Nurses and staff are part of the healthcare system, BTW.
You are absolutely right that nurses and other healthcare staff are essential components of the healthcare system. It is indeed the collective effort of all healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and support staff, that contributes to providing quality care for patients.

In addressing the challenges faced by illiterate patients and tackling misinformation, it is crucial for all healthcare professionals to work together as a team. This collaborative approach can help ensure that patients receive the personalized care they need, irrespective of their literacy levels or other barriers.
“There is only one thing a philosopher can be relied upon to do, and that is to contradict other philosophers”

– William James
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

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Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
The term "attacks on doctors" in this context refers to the verbal or written criticism, skepticism, or mistrust that some people express towards medical professionals, particularly on the internet. These attacks can arise from misinformation, misunderstanding, or personal experiences and can manifest in various ways, such as negative comments, unfounded accusations, or spreading false information about healthcare providers.

In some cases, it may also refer to physical attacks on doctors and other healthcare workers, which can occur due to frustration, anger, or fear, often exacerbated by miscommunication or misinformation.
“There is only one thing a philosopher can be relied upon to do, and that is to contradict other philosophers”

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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

Post by Sushan »

Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 10:51 am
nam_dayal wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:31 am
Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
Well! Apart from online attacks (verbal and so on), there have been several physical attacks (you can look into the situation in India) on doctors here.
Interesting. I wasn't aware of that (obviously). Any idea why some people are attacking medical personnel there?
In India, as well as in other countries, there have been instances of physical attacks on doctors and other medical personnel. These attacks can stem from various reasons, including:

Emotional distress: When a patient's condition worsens or they pass away, their family members might be overwhelmed with grief and anger. They might blame the doctors for not providing adequate care, even if the healthcare professionals did their best under the circumstances.

Miscommunication: A lack of clear communication between doctors and patients or their families can lead to misunderstandings, which can escalate into conflicts and physical altercations.

Misinformation and mistrust: With the spread of misinformation on the internet and social media, some people develop mistrust towards the medical community. They might believe in alternative treatments or conspiracies, which can fuel aggression towards healthcare providers.

Overburdened healthcare system: In many parts of the world, including India, healthcare systems are often stretched thin, with limited resources and inadequate infrastructure. This can lead to long waiting times, insufficient care, and frustration among patients and their families.

To tackle these issues, it's essential to address the root causes, such as improving the healthcare infrastructure, promoting clear communication between doctors and patients, and combating misinformation. Educating communities about the importance of trusting medical professionals and fostering a culture of empathy and respect can also help reduce the occurrence of such attacks.
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

Post by LuckyR »

Sushan wrote: April 13th, 2023, 2:49 am
Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
The term "attacks on doctors" in this context refers to the verbal or written criticism, skepticism, or mistrust that some people express towards medical professionals, particularly on the internet. These attacks can arise from misinformation, misunderstanding, or personal experiences and can manifest in various ways, such as negative comments, unfounded accusations, or spreading false information about healthcare providers.

In some cases, it may also refer to physical attacks on doctors and other healthcare workers, which can occur due to frustration, anger, or fear, often exacerbated by miscommunication or misinformation.
The special thing about healthcare as a topic of discussion is that everyone uses it and thus has firsthand knowledge and experience with it. Typically folks enjoy complaining about the health care "system", yet love their personal doctor. What people don't stop to think is every doc is someone's personal doctor ie no matter how bad you think a particular doc is, someone else thinks they're the best ever. Kind of puts random criticism in a bit of perspective.
"As usual... it depends."
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Re: Tackling the problem of attacks on doctors.

Post by Sushan »

LuckyR wrote: April 13th, 2023, 11:45 pm
Sushan wrote: April 13th, 2023, 2:49 am
Terrapin Station wrote: June 8th, 2021, 8:27 am What sort of attacks on doctors are we talking about?
The term "attacks on doctors" in this context refers to the verbal or written criticism, skepticism, or mistrust that some people express towards medical professionals, particularly on the internet. These attacks can arise from misinformation, misunderstanding, or personal experiences and can manifest in various ways, such as negative comments, unfounded accusations, or spreading false information about healthcare providers.

In some cases, it may also refer to physical attacks on doctors and other healthcare workers, which can occur due to frustration, anger, or fear, often exacerbated by miscommunication or misinformation.
The special thing about healthcare as a topic of discussion is that everyone uses it and thus has firsthand knowledge and experience with it. Typically folks enjoy complaining about the health care "system", yet love their personal doctor. What people don't stop to think is every doc is someone's personal doctor ie no matter how bad you think a particular doc is, someone else thinks they're the best ever. Kind of puts random criticism in a bit of perspective.
You make an excellent point. It's essential to understand that healthcare is a complex and personal topic, and people's experiences with their healthcare providers can be highly subjective. The perception of a particular doctor can differ significantly between patients, and it's crucial to keep this in mind when considering any criticism or praise of healthcare professionals.

To address the issue of misinformation and skepticism towards doctors, we can take the following steps:
  • Encourage open communication between patients and healthcare providers, fostering an environment where patients feel comfortable asking questions and discussing their concerns.

    Promote accurate, evidence-based information about healthcare, debunking myths and misconceptions that may contribute to mistrust or misunderstanding.

    Support initiatives that aim to improve healthcare access and quality, ensuring that all individuals have access to competent and compassionate care.

    Advocate for the responsible use of social media and online platforms, discouraging the spread of false or misleading information about healthcare providers and encouraging critical thinking and fact-checking.

    Celebrate and share positive stories and experiences with healthcare providers, highlighting the dedication and professionalism of the vast majority of medical professionals.
“There is only one thing a philosopher can be relied upon to do, and that is to contradict other philosophers”

– William James
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