Every year on July 1st, India observes National Doctors' Day in honour of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, commemorating both his birth and death. The Government of India designated this date in 1991 to pay tribute to his significant contributions to medicine and public service. This day serves as an occasion to acknowledge the unwavering dedication and selfless efforts of doctors, who work tirelessly to save lives, alleviate suffering, and enhance public health, often at great personal sacrifice.
The theme for National Doctors' Day 2025, "Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?", resonates profoundly with the medical community, shining a light on the mental and emotional challenges faced by healthcare workers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude in a message, applauding doctors for their "dexterity and diligence" and their "spirit of compassion."
This observance is not just about recognizing the sacrifices of physicians who work "Behind the Mask." It also represents a critical opportunity for society, policymakers, and the healthcare community to collaboratively confront systemic challenges, rebuild trust, and ensure that those dedicated to healing receive the respect and support they deserve. Only through such collective efforts can the legacy of pioneers like Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy truly thrive for future generations.
Legacy of Dr. BC Roy…
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy's life serves as a beacon for aspiring medical professionals, illustrating the extensive impact a doctor can have on both healthcare and the broader society. His contributions highlight the vital role of physicians in addressing health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, while also emphasizing the importance of ongoing care and medical research.
Born on July 1, 1882, in Bankipore, Patna, Dr. Roy overcame numerous obstacles to obtain his medical education at Calcutta Medical College. Despite financial difficulties, he excelled in his studies, even working as a nurse to support himself. After facing initial rejections due to his Indian heritage in England, he triumphed by securing MRCP and FRCS qualifications in record time. Returning to India in 1911, Dr. Roy joined the Provincial Health Service and took on teaching roles in various medical colleges in Kolkata. Renowned for his diagnostic prowess and dedication, he treated prominent figures, including Mahatma Gandhi. He was instrumental in establishing several key medical institutions, such as the Jadavpur T.B. Hospital and the Chittaranjan Cancer Hospital. Notably, he founded the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 1928 and served as the inaugural president of the Medical Council of India (MCI).
Dr. Roy was a key figure in India's freedom movement, engaging in the Civil Disobedience Movement and forming a friendship with Mahatma Gandhi. He served as the Alderman and later the Mayor of Calcutta, introducing initiatives for free education and medical assistance. In 1948, he became the second Chief Minister of West Bengal, a position he held for 14 years, during which he made transformative contributions to industrial development, education, and healthcare, establishing new cities like Durgapur and Bidhannagar, which honour his name. In recognition of his outstanding service to the nation, Dr. Roy was awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1961.
Role of Doctors in Contemporary Society
Today, doctors bear immense responsibilities as they gain the trust of patients who rely on them for their health and well-being. They are tasked with delivering medical care with the highest standards of knowledge, skill, and compassion. This includes accurate diagnosis and treatment plans, as well as ensuring patients are fully informed about risks and benefits before undergoing any procedures. Maintaining confidentiality and staying abreast of the latest medical advancements are also key responsibilities for practicing doctors.
While the majority of medical professionals uphold their responsibilities with diligence, instances of medical negligence can arise, leading to societal concerns. Medical negligence is legally defined as a failure by a practitioner to meet the standard of care that a competent and careful doctor would have upheld, resulting in patient harm. Examples include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, improper medication administration, and failing to obtain informed consent.
Healthcare professionals, particularly those in public health systems, frequently experience considerable pressure from heavy patient loads and limited resources, which can increase the likelihood of errors. Moreover, the commercialization of healthcare can sometimes foster unethical practices and prioritize profit over patient welfare. Though legal protections such as the Consumer Protection Act exist in India, proving medical negligence can be complex, often leading to perceptions of accountability shortcomings.
It is important to recognize that not every adverse outcome or error constitutes negligence. Doctors are human and can make mistakes. The legal standard for negligence hinges on whether the doctor's actions fell short of the accepted standard of care that a reasonable physician would adhere to in similar circumstances. Addressing concerns around negligence necessitates a comprehensive approach, including enhancing working conditions, promoting ethical practices, improving communication skills, fortifying regulatory bodies, and cultivating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within healthcare systems.
Happy Doctor's Day to the entire dedicated medical profession who tirelessly serve society.
