Public Health

Medicine is not Cure, it is the Cause

We try to remember that medicine is for the patient. We try never to forget that medicine is for the people. It is not for the profits. The profits follow, and if we have remembered that, they have never failed to appear.

August 8, 2023

By Team Health Parliament

Medicine is not Cure, it is the Cause

Amidst the vast landscape of #pharmaceutical giants, a recent case involving #Bedaquiline has brought a crucial question to the forefront: Is medicine a cure or a cause of miseries?

Allow us to share with you a recent real-life story that prompted us to pause and reflect. We have a small-scale vendor who had been unemployed. In an effort to assist him, we decided to involve him in our stationary business by entrusting him with all of our orders. Over time, he succeeded in establishing himself in the market, supplying stationery to various organizations.

A few months ago, he developed a cough and experienced weakness, which he dismissed as a common flu or infection. He continued his business activities as usual, visiting different offices and interacting with people there. Concerned about his health, we discussed the possibility of #tuberculosisand the risks of neglecting his well-being. We insisted that he undergo a check-up and enlisted the help of a doctor on our team to counsel him. Upon examination, he was diagnosed with Pulmonary Tuberculosis.

Thanks to his prompt action and commitment to treatment, his health was preserved, allowing him to continue operating his business. What is even more remarkable is that our timely intervention shielded many others who had come into contact with him through business interactions.

This poignant incident forced us to confront a harsh reality, one that many of us could easily find ourselves confronting:

1) Ignoring the symptoms- This seemingly innocuous act could lead to the unwitting spread of a potentially life-threatening disease, impacting not only our health but also burdening us with costly treatments and potentially leaving us disabled.

2) Recognizing the symptoms- On the other hand, being vigilant and proactive in seeking medical attention can result in timely diagnosis and treatment, though it may come with its own financial burden.

In this context, let us remember the words of George W. Merck, who wisely said, 'We try to remember that medicine is for the patient. We try never to forget that medicine is for the people. It is not for the profits. The profits follow, and if we have remembered that, they have never failed to appear.'

In the realm of healthcare, there is a crucial principle to remember: the well-being of the patient should always take precedence. Healing and compassion should never be sidelined in favor of profits. Let us unite to ensure that advancements in medicine benefit everyone, particularly those who are most in need. We envision a world where good health is a right, not a privilege. By advocating for affordable and accessible healthcare, we can forge a brighter, healthier future for all. Together, we can redefine the true purpose of medicine and construct a healthcare system that is equitable and compassionate.

Key message: Not everyone is lucky to work in the healthcare sector. You can make a big difference in the lives of people even if you are not a doctor!

Feel Something. Do Something.
Talk and help.
Create Impact. Drive Positive Change.

#HealthImpact #FeelSomethingDoSomething #TalkingHelpsHealing

Authors

Team Health Parliament

Team Health Parliament

Health Parliament is the world's foremost and fastest-growing healthcare think-tank. We believe in ground-level transformation through Real Work, Great Leaders, and Right Policies. Our work reaches the policymakers and has helped shape impactful public health interventions. We convene Thought Leaders and Industry experts through exclusive CEO roundtables, masterclasses, regional leadership development forums, webinars, and conferences. Health Parliament Membership is now open for healthcare professionals from India and 66 other countries.

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