National Doctor's Day 2025: Experts share the most common mistakes patients make and how to avoid them; check here

Time of India

7 days ago

India observes National Doctor's Day on July 1 every year to celebrate the relentless dedication, compassion and efforts of its medical professionals. On this day, we asked doctors to share the most common mistakes they see patients make and how small changes can lead to big improvements.
This day recognises the vital role doctors play in healing, protecting and supporting communities, frequently at great personal cost. Understanding the common pitfalls is extremely important, as it can help patients take better care of themselves and improve their doctor-patient relationship.
While we often talk about the mistakes patients make, it's equally important to reflect on common mistakes doctors can make, many of which can impact treatment outcomes. One of the most crucial aspects is the patient-doctor relationship.
Busy schedules, constant phone calls, and rushed environments
Due to busy schedules, constant phone calls, and rushed environments, doctors sometimes fail to provide patients with the time and space they need. 'This may result in missed opportunities to address patients' concerns, clarify doubts, or respect their values and preferences in treatment decisions,' says Dr. Manisha Arora, Director of Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi.
Lending a listening ear is key. 'While patients shouldn't dwell excessively on unrelated past issues, they must be encouraged to articulate their current concerns clearly, perhaps by writing them down in advance,' suggests Dr. Arora.
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A doctor should also never forget to ask about allergies, as missing this can lead to severe reactions. Prescribing incorrect dosages or not explaining the timing and duration of medication properly can further complicate recovery.
On the patient's part, skipping routine checkups or delaying screenings is risky. According to Dr. Arora, 'Doctors must proactively advise timely tests and offer lifestyle guidance on exercise, diet, sleep, and digital detox. Most of these issues stem from a lack of time, but being mindful of these small yet significant details can truly transform healthcare outcomes.'
Common patient mistakes that could risk your health
Doctors often see patients making critical mistakes that can impact their health outcomes. 'One major error is failing to ask questions or clarify concerns about their treatment plan, leading to misunderstandings and non-adherence. Patients also frequently neglect to disclose their full medical history, including medications and supplements, which can interact with prescribed treatments or worsen conditions,' says Dr Nasiruddin G, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road.
Not following medication instructions or dosage is another common mistake, potentially reducing efficacy or increasing side effects. Dr. Nasiruddin adds, 'Ignoring symptoms or delaying medical attention can allow conditions to progress, making treatment more challenging.'
Lastly, self-diagnosing or relying solely on online research can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. By being aware of these pitfalls, patients can take steps to avoid them, such as writing down questions before appointments, keeping a medication list, and communicating openly with their healthcare team.
By doing so, patients can improve their understanding of their care, adhere to treatment plans, and ultimately achieve better health outcomes.