Dean of FK UNISA Yogyakarta Highlights Viral Case at Sekayu Regional General Hospital

A viral case involving a doctor at Sekayu Regional General Hospital, Musi Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra, who was scolded by a patient’s family and forced to remove his mask, has attracted public attention. The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at ‘Aisyiyah University (UNISA) Yogyakarta, Dr. Joko Murdiyanto, Sp.An., MPH., FISQua., expressed his view that the incident is a clear illustration of the importance of healthy communication between medical staff, patients, and patients’ families, on Tuesday (August 19).

“Perhaps there was an asymmetrical communication problem between the doctor and the family. Building communication between doctors and patients is not an easy thing,” said Dr. Joko in an interview.

He assessed that based on the video footage, the patient’s family’s actions could be categorized as a form of intimidation. “By shouting and forcing the doctor to remove his mask, they clearly did not respect the doctor,” he said.

According to Dr. Joko, a doctor’s decision to wear a mask is not without reason. “Doctors wear masks after careful consideration, not only to protect themselves but also to protect patients from the risk of disease transmission,” he explained.

Furthermore, Dr. Joko emphasized that communication between doctors and patients or their families must be well-established, taking into account several important aspects. “Use plain language to explain the problems faced by patients, the timing must be right, and convey the patient’s condition regularly and consistently. This can minimize misunderstandings,” he explained.

In addition to communication aspects, legal and institutional protection are also equally important. In accordance with the Articles of Association, members of the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) are entitled to organizational protection while practicing their profession in accordance with legal, ethical, and disciplinary principles. “The IDI must also continuously educate the public about doctor-patient communication, which has its own unique dynamics,” said Dr. Joko.

He also added that medical schools have a responsibility to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges in the field. “Medical students must be continuously encouraged to understand legal, ethical, and professional issues, as well as how to implement them in patient care after graduating as doctors,” he said.

Closing his statement, Dr. Joko reminded everyone of the importance of mutual respect. “Doctors are there to help with all their abilities. Trust and healthy communication are needed so that the common goal, which is patient safety, can be achieved,” he concluded.