Doctors Very Sad

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Doctors are sad, a very sad symptom, for a doctor.  Fortunately, they have done a self-diagnosis and came up with some culprits.

l The internet. There are thousands of online ‘doctors’ that never set foot in a hospital ward, let alone an operating theatre.  It’s like those mummy blogs by women who don’t have even half-a-kid.

l Pharmaceutical companies. Their ads go like this. “Tell your doctor to prescribe Back Fix Tablets for your aching back.”

l Drugstores/Pharmacies/Chemists. Knowledge that used to reside exclusively in doctors’ heads is like autumn leaves: it’s free online and comes in different colours. That is why some people are using drugstores more and more for aches and pains.

Doctors meet from time to time to discuss their dilemma and reminisce about med school and student loans that are hard to pay off, since patient numbers are dwindling.  What dominates conversation every time they meet is the nagging fear of regret.  

Was spending more than six years in med school worth it? The intention was to help sick people, to make a difference. Now they meet in coffee shops and discuss the doctor’s dilemma they come across at least once a week.

Patient: Doctor, the internet said I have pneumonia. 

Nonqaba waka Msimang

Executive Blogger

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