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Medical Ethics in Ancient India: 75
it. Hence the physician must always continue to sharpen his intellect and increase his proficiency. (9: 20). Elsewhere Caraka enumerates six qualities of a successful physician as follows: Having knowledge, critical approach, insight into allied sciences, sharp memory, promptness and perseverance. To these he adds sharp intellect, practical experience, continued practice, success in treatment, and being in consultation with an experienced teacher. (9:21-22).
Since there is no limit to knowledge, Caraka advises the physician to try to learn every moment. According to Suśruta, study, discussion, perusal of foreign literature and devoted service to the masters of particular techniques are essential for gaining wider knowledge and improving skills. One cannot come to the right conclusion by studying just one aspect of a subject. Hence the physician must learn other viewpoints also to become proficient. 10
Code of Conduct while Treating the Sick
A physician must not visit a patient at his residence uninvited and without prior intimation. On being invited he must go to the house of the patient and observe the portents and signs. He must not look at anyone other than the patient, and all his senses must be alert and concentrated on him. Every action of the physician should be precise and deliberate. (Kasyapa Samhitā, 1.8).
The physician must not converse or make fun with the ladies of the patient's household, nor should he refer to their names disrespectfully. He should not sit with them in private, nor show excessive regard towards them."
A physician' must not reveal the secrets of the household or the patient, nor spread broadcast the demerits of the family. (5.8). A patient may not have faith in his father, mother, friend or children but may open his heart to the physician. He must therefore, never expose the patient and must honour the confidence the patient has in him.12
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