“Medicines cure diseases, but only doctors can cure patients.” – Carl Jung
July 1st is observed as National Doctor’s Day to highlight and acknowledge the precious contribution of doctors to healthcare and mankind.
Table of Content:
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Significance & History
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First Five & Important Doctors of India
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Interesting Facts about Doctors in India
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Doctor’s health matters too
Significance & History of National Doctor’s Day
The world constantly faces healthcare crises in the form of life-threatening diseases. The tireless efforts and courage doctors display throughout difficult situations and medical emergencies are highly commendable.
National Doctor’s Day is a platform to appreciate doctors’ brave and selfless efforts while treating their patients.
National Doctor’s Day was originally marked on July 1st, 1991, in honour of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (July 1st, 1882–July 1st, 1962) to honour his contributions to medicine. July 1st is both his death and birth anniversary.
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (July 1st, 1882–July 1st, 1962) was a well-known physician, educator, independence fighter, social worker, and politician. He was also the chief minister of West Bengal for 14 years (1948–1962).
First Five Doctors of Ancient India
The ancient Indian civilisation has been home to many great doctors who have contributed significantly to medicine. And what could be the best occasion to remember the contribution of the doctors of ancient India than National Doctor’s Day.
The ancient Indian civilization was a hub of medical knowledge and discovery, with its doctors developing innovative treatments and cures for a variety of illnesses and diseases. Five such important doctors were:
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Atreya is known as the father of scientific medicine. He was a proponent of Ayurveda and wrote Atreya Samhita, an important text in Ayurveda.
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Sushruta was a physician and surgeon. He is known for his contributions to the field of surgery, particularly in the areas of plastic surgery and cataract surgery.
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Charaka was a physician known for his contributions to the field of Ayurveda and for writing the Charaka Samhita, an important text in Ayurveda.
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Vagbhata was a physician known for his contributions to the field of Ayurveda and for writing the Ashtanga Hridaya, one of the most comprehensive texts on Ayurveda.
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Madhavacharya was a physician known for his contributions to the field of Ayurveda and for writing the Madhava Nidanam.
Five Interesting Facts about Doctors in India
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Indian doctors are exposed to a lot more cases than their Western counterparts.
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Nearly half of graduating medical students in 2018 were female. Women physicians are on the rise*.
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Indian doctors work in rural areas and learn to function in less-than-optimal conditions. They are the best performers, even with minimal instruments and unfavourable conditions.
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More than 60% of all physicians reported working overtime or nearly 60 hours per week*.
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Indian doctors selflessly work for the upliftment and well-being of the tribal people who live in the forests.
Doctor’s health matters too!
Doctors have the noble task of serving and healing mankind. But in this selfless service, their own health is crucial. Here are five important points that doctors should not miss.
- The M and M rule – While every meeting is important, every meal is also crucial for good health. So, do not skip meals.
- Avoiding Burnouts – Despite the busy schedule, it is pivotal for doctors to take some time out for themselves.
- Stress management is crucial.
- Focus on your health by having home-cooked fresh food and avoid relying on cafeteria food.
- 30-60 Rule – Doctor’s should ensure thirty minutes of physical activity every day and avoid any screen time 60 minutes before going to bed.
With maintaining a good health, doctors can not only focus on their patients but can inspire their patients and people around them to have a healthy life.
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