Let me share with you a detailed account of a recent incident that unfolded amidst the serene landscapes of Gopalpora Mattan, revealing profound insights into the ethical complexities of healthcare.
It all commenced with a simple request from a friend to assist in scouting for a plot of land near the construction site of NH 526. Little did we anticipate that this journey would lead us down a path fraught with ethical dilemmas and moral reckonings?
As we traversed through the verdant fields of the Martand Karewa, we chanced upon a childhood friend amidst his apple orchard. The joyous reunion soon turned solemn as our friend recounted a troubling experience that transpired earlier that day.
He narrated his visit to a pediatrician in Anantnag, prompted by concerns over his son’s fever. During the consultation, a medical representative was observed demonstrating a cough syrup to the doctor. Yet, what struck us was the unsettling revelation that an ingredient in the syrup, propylene glycol (PG), had been linked to recent fatalities.
Our friend, despite holding a position within the Department of Drug Control, chose not to disclose his professional identity to the doctor. He believed it would be unfair to exploit his status for preferential treatment and instead felt compelled to act on moral grounds.
He took it upon himself to inquire about the syrup’s ingredient from the medical representative and urged him to inform the doctor about its suitability for medical use. However, his attempts to engage the doctor in a discussion were met with dismissal, as the doctor asserted it was beyond his concern, thereby prioritizing commercial interests over patient safety.
Of particular note was the doctor’s retort to our friend, “Ye chhi drug walen henz kaem” (This is the job of drug control officials). Despite this, our friend remained steadfast in his commitment to fairness and refrained from revealing his professional affiliation.
This incident raises pertinent ethical questions within the healthcare landscape. Shouldn’t patient welfare be paramount? Why do some healthcare practitioners prioritize profit over the well-being of their patients? These are urgent issues that demand attention.
We must advocate for more stringent regulations to safeguard the integrity of medicinal products. Healthcare professionals must be reminded to prioritize patient care above financial gain. Furthermore, it is imperative to instill a strong ethical foundation in the education and training of future healthcare practitioners. Together, we must strive to cultivate a healthcare system that places patients at the forefront and champions ethical principles at every juncture…!!!
(Author is a regular columnist and can be reached at: [email protected])
