Taking it for the team

It is always hard to stick your head up and fight for a cause. Or so I hear. I have always been a crusader thats is passionate and controversial. I don't always conform but often question, looking for solutions where possible. As a result, I dont always 'fit in'. That can be tough, and I know I can polarise, but it's all I know, even if it creates personal angst at times. 

The recent @AHPRAaction debate has fuelled passion and outrage within me from the get go. I have watched the argument intently, and yesterday, I added my name to a petition that will be delivered to my governing body as a doctor and psychiatrist. Many of my colleagues agree with my views on this assault on free speech but are too concerned of potential backlash, and as such resist from adding their name to the petition. It doesn't mean they don't care but they fear consequences. 

Do I fear consequences? Of course I do. Do I fear my potential vulnerabilities as we move to a society focused on social media? Resoundingly, yes. I felt comforted today as I checked the list and found doctors I admire adding their names to the petition. Today, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal threw his support behind #APHRAaction that counter proposed regulations by AHPRA regarding social media. If there is one doctor I would state cares about his peers, its Mukesh. I was priveliged to have an office bearer position within AMA when he was involved at state level, then as federal president. I am reassured that I am actively supporting a cause with no certain conclusion, and involves a body that can de-register me, but I am one of many including Mukesh. I can state vehemently that this is not fair, encourage lively debate and influence a decision that can only become more relevant as we move towards a future intertwined with social media. 

I have been reflective during this debate. Why do we fear backlash as doctors? It begins as medical students and interns.  We learn not to show weaknesses or vulnerabilities, or ask for help. We work hard but don't make it into our chosen specialty. We fail our college exams a few times and we keep fronting up for work. We struggle with the challenge of entering private practice while distracted by the intricacies of small business, while feeling we are alone. We learn somewhere in medical student training it's not OK to say we are struggling, and as such, human. But when we feel we are being treated unjustly? Why do we find it so hard to stand up for our rights?

The @AHPRA debate has been one sided largely because of lack of comment from the body that has imposed the regulations. I am proud I am on the side that has united doctors that are fearful of governing bodies, but more fearful of living in a world where all that is said about us publicly is negative. I know I am not alone when stating I am not a doctor for the notoriety. I don't need testimonials. My patients thank me behind closed doors, and on a difficult day that is all I need to keep going. But what of the next few years and social media trends? Did I sign up for a calling that is gruelling, challenging, terrifying yet rewarding only to see criticism about me? The balance might tilt and the tweets, posts and updates may shatter me on a difficult day. That's why I am fighting now. And being surrounded by the likes of Mukesh, I know I am doing the right thing by myself and my profession. And I am so proud to be one of my colleagues that has put their fears aside recently and exposed themselves as campaigners against these regulations. 

Let's hope we tip the balance in our favour.