It is indeed tragic that most Indians across generations are groomed from their formative years to subscribe to a flawed interpretation of the Karma theory and the caste system built on a fatalistic premise, which assumes without second thought that whatever happens (or does not happen) is the outcome of our good or bad karmaDr. B. S. Ajaikumar
In an utopian scenario, a good doctor is a honest doctor and vice versa. Sadly, given the complexities of human nature, coupled with the intricacies of healthcare, a good doctor is not necessarily a honest doctor. This reality instantly bring to mind a pithy quote in G. B. Shaw’s epic work ‘The Doctor’s Dilemma’:
"The most tragic thing in the world is a man of genius who is not also a man of honor."
There is a clear need to evolve a multi-disciplinary system of education that reinforces the integral role of ethics and morality to help healthcare serve the larger cause of humanity. A humanistic education that puts a premium on ethical behaviour can help create doctors who are both competent and conscientious. Yet, in the living waters of practice, the moral choices are largely individual. Therein lies the greatest challenge facing healthcare.