There were a few experiences I have had—seeing my own family and close relatives go through the process. For anyone, it is difficult to see their family members go through health-related challenges. Collectively, let us pray for good health for everyone.

The Tamil movie Ramana exposed the malpractices of some hospitals and doctors who exploit patients to make money. Recently, one of my close relatives had a medical emergency, and the doctor advised diabetic tests and some scans. We visited a clinic in our area, ——-He@lth, and the facilities were really amazing. We had to register (with a fee), and immediately, we were marketed their “One Plan” with attractive offers. For a moment, I wondered if I was in a grocery store or mobile store!

For the MRI scan, a different doctor from another clinic referred us to a clinic near HSR area. At the entrance, the clinic displayed a price list on a huge board—just like a traditional restaurant menu: 2 Idlies – Rs. 30, 1 Masala Dosa – Rs. 100, and so on. Similarly, This Scan – Rs. 2000, That Scan – Rs. 10,000. With a positive mindset, one could appreciate the transparency. However, the trend clearly highlights the business orientation of the health industry.

At the time of billing, I jokingly asked for a discount. To my surprise, I was given a Rs. 1000 discount and a complimentary MRI scan for another body part.

I remember Dr. Kadhadharan, my childhood pediatrician. He used to ask questions, check the heartbeat, inquire about what I ate, and then assess the symptoms before suggesting medications.

In our recent visit to a neurologist, the doctor was top-class but didn’t even use a stethoscope. He asked a few questions, reviewed previous scan reports, and suggested tests that cost over Rs. 20,000. He remarked, “If you had admitted earlier, insurance could have been claimed. Now they won’t cover it!” While I have complete respect for this famous doctor, it provides insight into the functionality of the medical industry.

In another instance in my native town, a patient in an emergency situation was denied medicine unless admitted.

The Business of Medicine

These are some indications that only a few doctors genuinely treat medicine as a service and see patients as human beings. Others seem to view patients as machines with specific parts—heart, brain—and no feelings.

In a recent video, I saw the founder of a very noble hospital chain stating that the insurance business should be owned by the hospitals themselves! Today, I even received another call from —–He@lth, marketing their “One Plan” again!

Mystical Reflection

Mystically, all of us know that we are not merely our body, mind, or emotions. There is so much happening, and human beings are going through immense trouble without clarity on who they are. I pray to God to show ways to smoothen these experiences for everyone.

Summary

1. Challenges in Healthcare: Witnessing close family members face health challenges is emotionally difficult.
2. Commercialization: The healthcare industry seems increasingly business-driven, with hospitals and clinics focusing on marketing and monetizing services.
3. Lost Compassion: While some doctors provide genuine care, others appear to treat patients as mere machines.
4. Transparency vs. Business Mindset: Transparent pricing can be appreciated, but the push for discounts and plans reflects a profit-oriented mindset.
5. Memories of True Service: Doctors like the childhood paediatrician who prioritized patient care are rare today.
6. Need for Clarity: Beyond physical and emotional struggles, humans lack clarity about their true selves.

Let us collectively pray for a healthcare system that combines genuine care with integrity, ensuring smoother experiences for all.

Aum