Social Consciousness of a Medico
Dr Syed Ahmed MD, DM (Dept. of Medical Gastroenterology, AIIMS New Delhi). General Secretary RDA, AIIMS New Delhi.
As rightly said by Hans Morgenthau, a famous political scientist that “man is a political animal by nature, he is a scientist by chance or choice, he is a moralist because he is a man”.
We have chosen ourselves to be the physicians and serve the humanity, by means of rightly treating the ailment and more importantly educating the patient about health. The physical health is no doubt governed by the various biological and physiological process and as doctors we are well versed with it and are taught in detail about it right from the medical school and we continue to learn them throughout our practice. However, generally, there is a perception that doctors lack social awareness and we tend to give a blind eye to the political issues of our current times, and isolate ourselves from various non-medical issues engulfing our current times. In the current ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, doctors are not only healers but also key stakeholders in shaping health policies and systems. The need for political awareness among doctors is paramount, as their insights and advocacy can contribute significantly to the development of effective healthcare policies and the improvement of overall health outcomes. One of the key ways by which one can develop the political acumen is by actively participating in student politics in our campuses.
Student politics, often considered the heartbeat of any academic institution, plays a crucial role in shaping the socio-political landscape of campuses to begin with and also influences the narrative beyond the campuses at large. While the relevance of student politics is widely acknowledged in various disciplines, its importance in medical colleges is very relevant to us. The unique nature of medical education, along with the various social challenges faced by healthcare professionals, highlights the need for an active and engaged student political body within medical colleges.
Academic Advocacy:
One of the primary reasons for the necessity of student politics in medical colleges is its role in academic advocacy. Medical education is rigorous and demanding, requiring constant adaptation to evolving medical knowledge and technologies. An active student political body can serve as a bridge between the student community and the administration, advocating for improvements in curriculum, access to resources, engage actively in promoting evidence based medicine, to promote collaborations among various institutes to develop strong scientific temperament among the students and also take measures to tackle anti-science approaches and to improve the overall learning environment. By actively participating in the decision-making process, students can contribute valuable perspectives for the same.
Professional Development and Networking:
Student politics provides a platform for young doctors to develop essential leadership and organizational skills. Through student unions, medical students can engage in activities that foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving – skills crucial for their future roles as healthcare providers. Additionally, student politics creates opportunities for networking with peers, faculty, and professionals in the healthcare industry. Building such networks early in their careers can prove invaluable for students seeking mentorship, guidance, and collaboration.
Advocacy for Student Welfare:
Medical education is demanding, long hours of study, lengthy working hours during residency, dealing with emotional challenges of patients and their kin takes a toll on physical and mental health of a medical student. An active student political body can play a pivotal role in advocating for the welfare of medical students. This includes addressing mental health concerns, ensuring fair evaluation practices, and advocating for policies that support a healthy work-life balance.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility:
Healthcare professionals are among the key advocates for public health and social justice. Student politics in medical colleges instills a sense of social responsibility in future doctors. By engaging in community service initiatives and advocating for health-related issues, one can develop a broader perspective on the role of healthcare in society. This involvement fosters a sense of civic duty and prepares students to be socially conscious professionals who actively contribute to addressing health disparities, promoting gender equality, addressing social determinants of health such as poverty and social injustices and promoting community well-being and social harmony.
In conclusion, the need for student politics in medical colleges is evident in its multifaceted benefits for students, educational institutions, and the healthcare system at large. As the integral role of student politics in shaping the future of healthcare is recognized, it becomes imperative to encourage and support the active participation of students in the political processes within their academic institutions.