April 2019 digital edition

UPDATE YOURSELF TO THE
NEW WORLD CONSISTENTLY
DR R R RAVI
Director & HOD, Dept of Neuro-Spinal Surgery, KG Hospital, Coimbatore
Developing greater confidence in patients about the
treatment is one of the prime responsibilities of
a clinician. While this is a general principle to be
followed by the medical profession in every case, it is of
utmost importance in the branch of neuromedicine. This
is because there is always a stigma associated with this
branch of medicine, especially in case of surgeries on
spine or brain, that the patient often ends up with some
kind of side effect, such as paralysis or other impacts,
post operation.
Since it is a proven fact that the patient’s faith in the
medical or surgical procedure significantly boosts the
outcome, there are truly best results that are guaranteed
with the best clinical practices as well. This is more so
today with the advent of state-of-the-art technologies
and products, both in diagnosis as well as treatments.
But unfortunately, bad outcomes often get wider
publicity, leading to added social stigma. At the same
time, the best results are mostly kept under wraps. This
should change. Good outcomes achieved through better
skill sets, technologies and advancements in science
should also get their due and be projected, in order to
build confidence in the patient community.
In order to facilitate this one requires wider exposure
to the advanced world of science and technology and
continued upgradation.
I strongly believe that Indian doctors are no less to their
counterparts in developed countries in terms of clinical
skills and exposure to modern techniques.
Since our own education system and the curriculum
still needs improvisation, which is imminent, the ultimate
responsibility to upgrade oneself lies with the doctor
himself. And the best way to achieve this is to expose
ourselves to the new world consistently.
— As told to CH Unnikrishnan
98 / FUTURE MEDICINE / April 2019