Medical profession is no more ‘noble’ in Kashmir

Bilal Bashir Bhat
Srinagar, Dec 06 (Only Kashmir): The profession of a doctor is considered as highly noble, however, in Kashmir over the years, the members belonging to this profession are becoming the cause of sufferings of mankind via their unethical and irresponsible behavior. The malpractices by a majority of doctors in Kashmir have converted “the noble profession” into a business sector.
The recent incident where an undisciplined doctor on duty was asked to follow the protocol has surprisingly evoked hue and cry from the doctor community and even a strike has been called without considering its consequences on the patients’ lives, and undoubtedly this all speaks about the level of seriousness of those people who in other parts of the world are known as like God on Earth.
Though there are tall claims of government to put an end to the private practice of doctors in Kashmir which results exaggerated expenses and even sometimes unnecessary surgeries but failed to curb till date.
“Doctors have to choose either between keeping their job or private practice and any violation of the directions will be viewed seriously,” this was stated by the erstwhile Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in 2015, however, his successor Mehbooba Mufti yet failed to implement his father’s order on ground which would be very fruitful for the healthcare sector.
Not only the malpractice is concern in Medical profession in Kashmir, the time and again insincere strikes by the doctors’ community are also putting the life of patients at risk.
The recent incident at a hospital in Kupwara where a doctor was inquired by Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) for not wearing apron which is necessary for maintaining hygienic regulations and symbolization of being a doctor, was surprisingly taking on negative note by a section of doctors, however, the common people hailed SDM for his remarks.
“Registering protest by wearing black bands in case if it felt adverse for the doctor community, but calling an undue strike is unethical on part of the ‘Messiahs of society’ the government should take action against these doctors for repeatedly observing strike and putting the life of patients on risk,” said Tanveer Ahmad, associated with medicine profession.
At a time when Medical education has become costly, a majority of doctors taking full advantage of their essential job are becoming the reason for raising the immorality rate in medical profession high with every passing day. There is high need that government should look into the matter on a very serious note otherwise this ‘noble’ profession will lose its respect.
(Kashmir News Bureau)