The Duties of a Good Doctor

“To be a doctor, then, means much more than to dispense pills or to patch up or repair torn flesh and shattered minds. To be a doctor is to be an intermediary between man and GOD.” Those were the words of the famous writer Felix Marti-Ibanez in a bid to encourage professionalism by doctors. A few years down the line, only a handful of doctors have risen above these words.

First, let us make it clear that no one is taunting our highly learned counterparts. In fact, I know of many people who can attest to professional doctors judiciously saving their lives or those of their loved ones. We are only trying to remind those who might have slumbered and forgotten how important we need them awake in this long accident-prone journey of life. So, what are the duties of a good doctor?

There are numerous tangible and sufficient sources of guidelines that direct doctors. The most notable one being for doctors registered to a local association or professional body that would steer them in the direction of good medical practice. In this provision, the words “you must” and “you should” are commonly used in the following ways:

Emphasis in this provision is on doctors being very familiar with all the duties and professional requirements of their job. Failure to follow professional rules is sufficient to have one’s membership to a professional body/association revoked.

Doctors are implored to respect doctor-patient confidentiality. The confidential information from patients should be used to enhance informed treatment and not for public disclosure.

They should also be prepared for eventualities like death and be able to prepare patients for the same. This however should be done in a tactful and conciliatory manner not to scare the patients.

A good doctor must also show respect for human life by handling patients with utmost care. In relation to this, it is the duty of doctors to do all in their power to keep their patients alive and healthy.

In addition, they should keep their skills up to date by embracing new information and technology. This would help them in doing their work faster and making more informed decisions.

Doctors must avoid being opinionated and biased by handling all clients fairly. They should however be as honest, open and laconic as possible to the patients.

Good doctors must also respect their patient’s right to decision making. They may advice patients on the best professional decision to make but let the patients settle on the final decision.

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