Addressing the trend of doctor bashing requires multifaceted efforts, including initiatives to reduce stress and burnout among healthcare professionals
In recent times, Nepal has witnessed a disconcerting trend of 'doctor bashing', where healthcare professionals, particularly doctors, have become targets of verbal and physical abuse, harassment, and even violence. News of manhandling and assaulting of doctors in various hospitals throughout the country – be they in Hetauda, Pokhara, Lamjung, Chitwan, Butwal, Biratnagar, Patan and other places – has become a frequent occurrence of late. This worrying trend is going to impart serious implications for the healthcare system, medical practitioners, and, ultimately, the well-being of the people.
Regrettably, it appears that the concerned authorities have largely chosen to disregard this issue. As a result, agitated doctors have taken the initiative to stage a protest in defense of their rights and well-being, with the Nepal Medical Association (NMA) lending their support to the cause.
Upon scrutinising the issues at hand, it becomes evident that several factors have contributed to the alarming trend of doctor bashing. Foremost among these factors is the inadequate healthcare infrastructure, prolonged waiting times and restricted access to high-quality healthcare services, all of which have fueled frustration among patients and their families.
One recent and deeply unfortunate incident that epitomises these challenges involved a seven-yearold girl who tragically succumbed to her illness while waiting for her turn for hours in the long queue within the emergency department of Kanti Children's Hospital. This heartbreaking event has shaken public confidence, and an investigatory committee has been formed to exhume the matter. Preliminary evidence suggests severe lapses in the diligence of the doctors-on-duty and healthcare professionals at the hospital.
In addition to this tragic incident, there have been repeated accounts of medical errors, whether substantiated or perceived, attributed to doctors. These occurrences have further eroded trust in the medical profession and prompted accusations of negligence.
The confluence of these factors underscores the pressing need for comprehensive reforms within the healthcare system, with an emphasis on improving infrastructure, reducing waiting times, enhancing the quality of care, and fostering transparent communication between medical practitioners and patients. Such measures are imperative to rebuild the trust that forms the bedrock of the doctor-patient relationship and to ensure the delivery of safe and compassionate healthcare services for all.
Another contributing factor that has diminished trust in doctors and healthcare professionals is inadequate doctor-patient communication and a perceived lack of empathy, especially in critical cases. This approach from doctors tends to heighten tensions and misunderstandings among patients and their families. Consequently, it motivates conscious family members of patients to disseminate misinformation and unfavourable narratives about healthcare providers on social media, further fueling the anger and resentment.
Furthermore, there are unsubstantiated reports suggesting the presence of intermediaries operating within hospitals. These individuals allegedly manipulate and encourage the families of patients in instigating unrest following an unfortunate incident, possibly for financial gain. They appear to incite a sponsored rowdy crowd to verbally and physically assault healthcare professionals and damage hospital property.
The ramifications of this steadily escalating trend of doctor bashing are poised to have detrimental and lasting effects on the healthcare sector. Foremost among these consequences is the significant toll it exacts on healthcare professionals, including heightened stress, burnout and psychological trauma, all of which ultimately undermine their capacity to deliver high-quality care.
The mounting frustration often leads skilled medical professionals to explore opportunities abroad, resulting in a potential brain drain that is siphoning valuable expertise away from the country. Furthermore, the erosion of trust in domestic healthcare institutions discourages patients from seeking essential medical care locally.Instead, many financially sound patients opt to travel overseas in pursuit of medical treatment, further straining healthcare resources and potentially leaving the healthcare sector in Nepal underutilised.
Addressing the trend of doctor bashing requires multifaceted efforts, including initiatives to reduce stress and burnout among healthcare professionals, restore trust in domestic healthcare institutions, and provide incentives for skilled professionals to remain in Nepal. Furthermore, strengthening legal protections for healthcare professionals as per the Security of Health Workers and Health Organisation Act-2066 will deter acts of violence and harassment within the healthcare setup.The conventional and social media should also initiate efforts to counter misinformation and mitigate the spread of negativity towards the healthcare professionals.By taking these steps, the healthcare sector can begin to alleviate the adverse effects of doctor bashing and ensure the continued delivery of quality healthcare services.
To sum up, the recent trend of doctor bashing in Nepal raises a grave concern that demands immediate attention and action. In the long run, it will not only jeopardise the physical and mental well-being of healthcare providers but also undermine the entire healthcare system. To ensure that the patients receive the quality healthcare they deserve, it is imperative to address this issue collectively through awareness, education and legislative measures. A respectful and empathetic healthcare environment is vital for the welfare of both patients and healthcare professionals.
Dr Joshi is a senior scientist and independent opinion maker based in Germany pushpa.joshi@ gmail.com
A version of this article appears in the print on October 4, 2023, of The Himalayan Times
