From Gods To Mortals: A Call For Humility In Medicine

In India, many patients still consider doctors to be like gods. Unfortunately, some doctors start believing this too! The truth is, we are only human. And it’s important to make sure our patients understand this. Why? So they have realistic expectations. How can we do that? It’s simpler than you think.

We’re Only Human

First, we need to accept that we are just like everyone else. We don’t have superpowers. Being a doctor is a job, just like many other professions. Yes, we make sacrifices, but so do other professionals. We aren’t risking our lives in ways that are much different from other high-risk jobs. We chose this career knowing what it involves, and we get paid for our work.

Doctors Are in the Service Industry

We also need to remember that we are in a service industry. Patients, like customers in any other field, expect a certain level of service based on what they pay. We’re not doing patients a favor. We are providing a service that we’re being paid for. If we agree to take care of someone, we are obligated to give them the care they deserve.

Clear Communication Is Key

A big issue that creates frustration is poor communication. We need to clearly explain to patients what their diagnosis is, what treatment we’ll provide, and what results they can expect. If things change unexpectedly, we need to communicate that even more clearly. Patients can’t read our minds, and we can’t read theirs. We are human, and we need to make that clear by saying the following three phrases more often.

1. "I Don’t Know"

We don’t know everything, even in our own field. It’s okay to admit that to patients. Saying “I don’t know” shows humility. The world of medicine is constantly evolving, and no one knows it all. Even a gold medal in medical school or 30 years of experience doesn’t mean you’ll have all the answers. Many patients, especially those with chronic conditions, often know more about their specific issue than we do. So, we need to listen to them and learn from them.

But we shouldn’t stop at “I don’t know.” We should add, “I will find out.” This reassures patients that we’ll look for the right answers, either by researching or consulting experts. It sends a message that we are humble enough to accept that we are human, not all-knowing gods.

2. "I’m Sorry"

Humans make mistakes, and doctors are no different. In fact, our mistakes can have serious consequences for our patients. Admitting our mistakes and saying “I’m sorry” is important. Even something small, like being late for an appointment, deserves an apology. It shows patients that we respect their time and will still give them the attention they deserve.

In the case of more serious errors, apologizing and explaining how we’ll fix the problem can actually build trust. When patients see that we are accountable for our actions, they are more likely to forgive us. Saying sorry helps us because we, too, need forgiveness since we are only human.

3. "Thank You"

Finally, we need to show appreciation. Patients trust us with their health and their lives. We should say “thank you” more often. They have many options but chose us to take care of them. Thanking them for that trust costs us nothing but can strengthen the relationship.

We rely on our patients for our livelihood, just as other professionals rely on their customers. If patients didn’t come to us, we wouldn’t be able to live comfortably or provide for our families. So, it’s important to thank them for their trust and loyalty.

When patients see us as fellow humans, their expectations will be more realistic. They will view us as partners in their care, not as distant authority figures. This can make the experience better for both us and our patients. That’s the power of being honest and humble — the power of being mere mortals doing the right thing.

Why is it vital for patients to see doctors as equals rather than authorities?

1. Trust and Collaboration: When patients view doctors as equals, it fosters a collaborative environment where both parties work together in decision-making. This can lead to better adherence to treatment plans and more positive health outcomes.

2. Open Communication: Seeing doctors as equals encourages patients to voice their concerns, ask questions, and share their experiences. This open communication is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

3. Reduced Anxiety: When patients perceive doctors as partners rather than authority figures, they often feel less intimidated and anxious. This can create a more comfortable environment for discussing health issues.

4. Empowerment: Treating patients as equals empowers them to take an active role in their healthcare, leading to better self-management and engagement in their treatment plans.

How can adopting a mindset of humility benefit both healthcare providers and patients?

1. Building Trust: Humility allows healthcare providers to acknowledge their limitations and mistakes, fostering trust between them and their patients. When patients see that their doctors are open about uncertainties, they are more likely to feel secure in their care.

2. Improved Relationships: A humble approach encourages better relationships, as providers who listen and acknowledge patients’ input create a more supportive and understanding atmosphere.

3. Enhanced Learning: Humility opens the door for healthcare providers to learn from their patients, leading to better understanding and treatment of conditions, especially chronic illnesses where patients often have valuable insights.

4. Patient Satisfaction: When providers communicate with humility, it often results in higher patient satisfaction. Patients appreciate when their doctors are relatable and approachable, which can enhance the overall experience of care.

5. Reduced Burnout: Humility can also help reduce burnout among healthcare providers, as acknowledging that they are not infallible can alleviate the pressure to always have the right answers and maintain an unrealistic image of perfection.

Doctors should always be humble and empathetic and remind our patients that we are but mere mortals!

The author is Director of Medical Services, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru

Dr Arvind Balakrishna Kasaragod

Guest Author Director of Medical Services, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bengaluru