Some of what I say may not be considered palatable as far as a lot of doctors are concerned. I've found that calling a spade a spade makes you unpopular, because even while people may agree with you in their heart of hearts, they're not sure they want some of these dirty secrets being laundered in public. That's why doctors are uncomfortable when I'm willing to talk openly about some of the unethical practices which have tarred the reputation of our profession, such as kickbacks and commissions. They feel I shouldn't ruffle the feathers of the powers that be. And, yes, I have paid the price for this.
You do get hurt when you stick your neck out, but I have accepted this reality. Keeping quiet is much safer, but it makes it harder to live with yourself. How can you turn a blind eye to the flagrant abuse of the powers which patients have entrusted doctors with ? I agree it's an…
