The Evolving Patient-Doctor Relationship in India
The Evolving Patient-Doctor Relationship in India
Trust, Communication, and Cultural Nuances in Indian Healthcare
The patient-doctor relationship in India is a complex and evolving dynamic, deeply influenced by cultural traditions, social expectations, and the rapid transformation of the healthcare sector. Historically, doctors in India have been viewed with immense reverence, often occupying a near-sacred status within their communities. Patients would typically accept medical advice unquestioningly, trusting in the doctor’s expertise and authority.
However, in recent years, this relationship has undergone significant change. It has been marred by a lack of Trust where even highly considered opinions by doctors are viewed with suspicion by patients.
Several cases of assault and killings of doctors have been reported. In May 2023, Dr. Vandana Das, a 22-year-old doctor on duty at a taluk hospital in Kollam (Kerala), was fatally stabbed by a patient. The killing triggered nationwide outrage and renewed calls for better protection of healthcare workers. In Tamil Nadu a doctor was stabbed while performing his duties in November 2024. A similar incident had occurred in Kolkata few months prior to this.
The large rise in assault against doctors prompted the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to conduct a survey in 2015 which revealed that three out of four doctors in India have been attacked at work by disgruntled attendants. There appears to be a lack of Trust between the general public and the doctor community.
The IMA also wrote to the Prime Minister in 2024 urging for implementation of stricter laws against assault on doctors. In 2025, the Government introduced a bill in Parliament titled “the Central Protection of Healthcare Workers and Medical Establishments from Violence Act, 2025” which called for stringent measures against members of the public in cases involving assault against doctors:
The object of the Bill is to establish a strong legal deterrent against all forms of violence against healthcare workers, ensuring a safe and conducive working environment in the healthcare sector.It also requires all medical establishments amongst other things to safeguard patient confidentiality, uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, and provide emergency care without discrimination, except on medical ground.
Language barriers, varying literacy levels, and traditional beliefs can sometimes hinder clear communication, making it vital for healthcare professionals to demonstrate empathy and patience. In urban centres, where private hospitals and clinics are prevalent, the relationship can sometimes become transactional, with patients expecting prompt service and clear explanations. With the advent of widespread internet access and increased health awareness, patients today are more informed and proactive about their health. They are likely to seek second opinions, research symptoms online, and engage in more active dialogues with their doctors. This shift has led to the expectation from patients for a more collaborative approach, where mutual respect and open communication form the cornerstone of effective healthcare.