New campaign chronicles growth and development of region's medical community

The region-wide project aims to recognize physicians' achievements by providing a written history of their career path. "My Story" focuses on the experiences of individual practitioners by asking them why they entered the profession, what their background was prior to doing so, the training they received, and the level of satisfaction they derive from their work.

To date, more than 150 practitioners and specialists throughout the region have participated in the scheme, whose objectives are to help patients understand a little more about their family doctor and to raise the level of awareness of the vital social contribution physicians make in the Middle East.

Physicians in the United Arab Emirates have been among the most enthusiastic participants.

"The 'My Story' initiative is an interesting one that raises the profile of the expanding medical community in the region, and provides recognition for the people who choose to enter this essential and rewarding profession," said Dr. Deepak Bhatia, orthopedic Surgeon, Al Zahra Hospital, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, one of the first doctors to have his story documented in the campaign.

Presenting a "potted biography" of the physician also helps forge a closer relationship between the patient and his or her healthcare provider, he added.

"Giving doctors the opportunity to discuss their experiences will hopefully encourage others to consider a career in medicine, and provide patients with an insight into the people who are responsible for their medical care. The region's healthcare sector is booming, and providing ever-higher standards of treatment and this initiative is a celebration of that success," said Bhatia

The information collected at each doctor's interview is featured on a poster, which is then displayed at the participating physician's rooms. The posters are displayed prominently, providing an added dimension to the relationship between physicians and patients.

The international pharmaceuticals company Novartis initiated the project, which has received full approval from local medical authorities. As the medical industry expands across the region, it is hoped that the scheme will help chronicle the work of family physicians, and provide inspiration to the doctors of tomorrow.

The following is a genuine account of one doctor's journey, chronicled by the "My Story" campaign.

"Often life's little twists and turns make me believe that one is born with one's destiny. I am happy with mine, especially because it is connected with so many people - my patients and their families.

When I was young, being left-handed was considered a handicap. I was left-handed and looked upon as an "unusual" student at school. At the age of eight, I visited an Orthopedic Surgeon - he was in fact, the most eminent surgeon in my hometown at that time. As fate would have it, he was left-handed too. I felt as if I had found a kindred soul; and I decided there and then to become an Orthopedic Surgeon myself.

I specialize in surgery of the knee and shoulder, and joint replacement. My job gives me immense fulfillment. My greatest satisfaction comes from watching patients who come in doubled up in pain walk out of the hospital cheerfully. With every patient or injured sportsperson who returns to a normal, active lifestyle, I feel grateful for a destiny that has helped me help them."