Today, as we mark National Doctors’ Day, we should take some time off to think about the changing dynamics of doctor-patient relationships, about the turbulent times we live in and how the medical fraternity and people must move towards building a stronger base and more importantly build trust between the two.

Of late, because of the intense media scrutiny, medical professionals have found themselves in several news reports where their credibility and competence have been questioned. While many of these cases have substance, some may be open to debate. Yet, like it or leave it, doctors have to realise that we live in a highly intrusive age, where every little action comes under the scanner. Social media has only added to the news frenzy, adding fuel to fiery reports, sometimes distorting it beyond recognition, and at other times, helping it to reach more people.