We doctors will help our own – but not at the expense of other patients | Ranjana Srivastava

The article discusses the ethical dilemma faced by doctors when it comes to prioritizing their own family members over other patients. The author, a doctor herself, acknowledges that while doctors are inclined to help their own, doing so at the expense of other patients is unethical. The article cites an example of a doctor who bypassed two hospitals to take his injured mother to his own institution, where she received prompt treatment within an hour. The writer of the letter to the ethicist questioned the doctor's conduct, given that other patients would have had to wait much longer for the same level of care. The author reflects on this situation, recognizing that while doctors may feel a strong desire to help their own, they have a professional obligation to treat all patients fairly and equitably. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining impartiality and upholding ethical principles, even when personal connections are involved.