India’s National Doctors’ Day, observed on July 1 each year, is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the dedication and sacrifices made by healthcare professionals. It is a day to showcase gratitude to doctors through various events, appreciation posts, and supporting their overall well-being.
However, a recent study conducted by the Indian Medical Association sheds light on the mounting stress and burnout faced by the majority of doctors in India. The study reveals that a staggering 82 percent of doctors in the country are experiencing high levels of stress. This stress not only affects their physical and mental health but also jeopardizes the trust patients have in medical procedures carried out by young doctors.
Among the various specializations, neurosurgeons are considered to be under the most significant amount of stress due to the need for high concentration and critical care in their procedures. The long working hours and exhaustive schedules doctors face result in them seeing an average of 40-60 patients per day, leaving little time for rest and rejuvenation. This relentless workload can have adverse effects on their emotional health.
Dr. Sambit Sahu, Director of Medical Services at KIMS Hospitals, emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and engaging in workshops and activities with other doctors to declutter their minds and stay up-to-date with new treatment options. Dr. Kishore B. Reddy, Managing Director of Amor Hospitals, acknowledges that doctors face immense emotional stress as they strive to provide the best care and treatment to their patients.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified the pressures on doctors, with extended working hours and high-risk areas becoming the norm. From general physicians to surgeons, every specialized doctor deals with an overwhelming amount of stress while diagnosing patients, suggesting treatment options, and ensuring the overall well-being of their patients.
Dr. P. Ranganadham, HOD and Senior Consultant in Neurosurgery at SLG Hospital, points out that the fear of violence and loss of trust among patients has become a primary concern for doctors. The establishment of numerous clinics, high treatment costs, and corruption within the medical field have contributed to this growing distrust.
Dr. Purna Chandra Reddy, senior urologist and executive director of the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, highlights the lack of subjective control and insufficient rewards as major sources of stress for doctors. He suggests that proactive management of stress can be achieved by taking regular mental breaks, which are often limited due to the demanding workload and long working hours faced by doctors.
In conclusion, National Doctors’ Day in India serves as a reminder of the enormous pressures and challenges faced by healthcare professionals. The study conducted by the Indian Medical Association highlights the urgent need to address the mounting stress and burnout experienced by doctors. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of doctors, provide them with opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, and foster an atmosphere where patients have trust in medical procedures. By recognizing the sacrifices and efforts of doctors, we can contribute to their overall mental and emotional well-being, ultimately benefiting the entire healthcare system.
