On the Frontline: Navigating Workplace Stress and Maintaining Balance

.A patient and her friend came into the outpatient department during lunchtime without an appointment. Already, I was about to go for lunch after seeing a patient. Three patients were waiting for post-lunch sessions in the outpatient department. This patient raised her voice to see me before lunch with the receptionist. The receptionist replied, “Your time will come after three other patients post lunch. You may have to wait for 45 minutes.” This patient wanted me to come out to explain, citing whether patient care is more important than food. She shouted, “Can't he eat lunch after seeing me? I have come all the way. I can't wait.” I lost my control as loud noises were coming from the waiting area. The patient attender (again a lady) tried to assault the receptionist as she stood in her stand. I came out and explained the situation. The attender started recording the proceedings without my permission. I told her to stop but it was of no use. I snatched the phone. Deleted the recordings. They shouted very loudly. I called the police. But they flew away. After the arrival of the police, I recorded the events and informed my local colleagues and the Indian Medical Association. Later it was found that they are habitual offenders. They threaten only to extract money from doctors. They looted a local grocery shop a week ago. Our local Indian Medical Association circulated their photos to sensitise other clinics. Some of my doctor friends told me these people have come at the end of the clinic timings to divert attention and extract money by blackmailing. This left me restless for a few days.