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The Challenge of Speaking Up
As an expert IVF specialist, I see many patients who have undergone multiple failed IVF cycles at various clinics. Upon discussion about the treatments they have received, it’s alarming to discover that many are significantly uninformed about the medical treatments they’ve undergone. While IVF patients are not expected to be medical experts, nor decide on the dosages of injections, they absolutely need to have a clear understanding of the treatments prescribed by their doctors, including the what, why, and when.
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Role of Patient Inquiry
A common response from patients, when asked about their lack of knowledge of their treatment details, is, “Oh, but the doctor didn’t tell us.” This attitude is perplexing. Although it’s true that doctors might not volunteer information, it is imperative for patients to take the initiative and ask questions. The reluctance to do so may stem from the traditional paternalistic approach of the Indian medical system, where doctors are not accustomed to being questioned and may respond with visible irritation or rudeness to inquiring patients. Some doctors go as far as discouraging questions by directing patients to “Google” instead, which is entirely unacceptable. Many actually lose their temper with patients who ask them questions , because they believe their authority is being challenged, when all the poor patients wants some clarity about the treatment , so they can better understand what is happening.
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Consequence of Silence
This acquiescence to medical authority not only reinforces the doctor’s belief that they don’t need to explain their actions but also contributes to a dynamic where doctors are viewed as infallible. This perception works until a treatment fails, leaving patients feeling betrayed and uninformed. What exacerbates the situation is the clinic’s refusal to share information post-failure, leading to distrust not just towards the individual clinic but towards the IVF specialty as a whole.
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The Impact on the Reputation of IVF Clinics
This issue is particularly pronounced in India, where many IVF clinics are part of for-profit corporate chains focused more on maximizing revenue through increased cycle numbers than on transparently sharing information with their patients. This lack of transparency and the deliberate withholding of information exploit the vulnerability of patients, further damaging the reputation of the IVF industry.
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Conclusion
The silence of IVF patients, driven by a complex mix of cultural, systemic, and interpersonal factors, underlines a significant issue within the patient-doctor dynamic in the fertility treatment landscape. It highlights the need for a shift towards more open, informative, and patient-centered care practices, ensuring that patients are empowered with knowledge about their treatment choices and understand the rationale behind their medical care. This change is crucial for rebuilding trust in the IVF specialty and ensuring that patients are partners in their care, rather than passive participants.
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