Earnest appeal for an ethical healthcare approach - Note from Dr V Santha Chairman - Cancer Institute ( W.I.A), Chennai

 A holistic effort to improve quality of health care which can reach all levels of society is a dire need.  The participants have to include not only all levels of medical professionals like general practitioners, specialists, super and sub super specialists but also include para professionals involved in medical care – like nurses, health workers, technicians and engineers involved in biomedical activities.

 The guiding principle has to be concept of service to humanity, respect for human life and to do no harm or malice.

 With increasing technology and scientific knowledge, the doctor/medical professional must ensure that the availability of technology  should not be the only reason for its use. One should weigh the pros & cons of its use, the cost benefits. This will be the responsibility of the physician taking care of the patient.

 This need for ethical practice, appreciation of social justice have to be inculcated in the minds of young medical students by including humanities and social justice as part of medical curriculum.

 Mahatma Gandhi said – “Science  without social relevance has very little to recommend it”

It is not enough to treat the patient/take care of the patient or tending the sick or dying.  The role of the physician is an expanding one – maintaining and promoting health.  The physician is expected to be a teacher, an adviser, be part of empowering the patient.  Today is the era of prevention, life style disease, chronic illnesses and age related problems.

 Dr V Santha

Chairman - Cancer Institute ( W.I.A), Chennai