Letter to the Editor: Not 'doctor shaming,' not vengeance

By Dr. Jerald Mark Garcia

Here is where I deviate from some of my medical colleagues in Cebu...

When patients or their family members challenge or question my medical decision-making, I am happy to engage with them and answer questions to their satisfaction. I am always ready to defend my thought process and the actions taken, regardless of the patient's outcome. I can be as general or as specific as they wish me to be in my explanation. I do not take offense by their questioning because it is my job as a doctor to ensure that my patients and their loved ones are always part of the medical decision-making process.

The Garcias have every right to ask questions about the medical care that was provided to not one, but two of their kin, both of which resulted in deaths less than a week apart. If you have nothing to hide, then just answer the questions raised. They deserve that transparency at least -- especially after you had just handed them an 8.5 million peso medical bill! If your conscience is clear, then no need to hide behind social media gimmickry (such as cute hashtags, profile picture changes or generic general statements). Just answer their questions. The Garcias are not "doctor shaming," nor are they seeking vengeance of any sort, they are simply asking for accountability from the doctors and institutions involved -- for the family’s own closure and for the benefit of the public.

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