Patient: Dr. Malpani, I’ve been feeling very confused and frustrated about my IVF treatment. Every time I try to ask my doctor questions, they brush me off or get upset. I’m also worried because when I mention what I read online, the doctor gets angry and tells me to go consult “Dr. Google.” Is this normal?
Dr. Malpani: Unfortunately, no, this is not normal. The word “doctor” comes from “dossier,” which means a doctor’s job is to teach, inform, and educate the patient so that they can make the best decision for themselves. However, what you’ve described is a problem in many IVF clinics, especially corporate ones. In these settings, doctors are often overworked, pressured to meet targets, and sometimes even discouraged from having open conversations with patients.
Patient: That’s what I thought! But my doctor seems more interested in pushing treatments and doesn't really explain things clearly. It feels like they’re more focused on completing cycles than ensuring I understand what's happening.
Dr. Malpani: Exactly. The issue with many corporate IVF clinics is that doctors are often incentivised to do as many cycles as possible, regardless of the patient's needs. They may even receive bonuses based on the number of treatments performed. This creates a huge conflict of interest because their primary concern is their salary, not providing the best care for you.
Patient: That sounds so unethical. What’s worse, I don’t feel like my doctor is telling me everything. They often throw around medical terms I don’t understand and pressure me into treatments I’m not sure I need.
Dr. Malpani: That’s a key red flag. Many doctors in these corporate setups use jargon and overwhelm patients with unnecessary tests and treatments. It's a tactic to make the patient feel more vulnerable and unsure, so they agree to treatments they might not actually need. This is what we call “overtreatment,” and it’s not in the patient’s best interest. Instead of providing tailored care, the goal is often to maximise the clinic's revenue.
Patient: So, how can I be sure I’m not being misled into unnecessary treatments?
Dr. Malpani: The most important thing is to ask questions and never let a doctor dismiss your concerns. A good doctor should be willing to explain everything in detail, helping you understand your options. They should provide transparent answers and allow you to make an informed decision, rather than just pushing treatments. Trust your instincts—if you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.
Patient: I’ve been thinking about getting a second opinion. But I’m not sure how to find a doctor who genuinely cares.
Dr. Malpani: Look for a doctor who listens to you, respects your concerns, and takes the time to explain things clearly. At my clinic, we believe in educating our patients and giving them the control to make the best decisions. We also make sure there’s complete transparency about the treatments, costs, and success rates. And remember, a second opinion can give you a fresh perspective and confirm that you're on the right path.
Patient: Thank you, Dr. Malpani. This conversation has made me feel a lot more confident. I think I’ll look into getting a second opinion to make sure I’m doing the right thing.
Dr. Malpani: I’m glad to hear that. If you'd like, I can provide a free second opinion after reviewing your reports. Or, you can book a video consultation to discuss your treatment further. You deserve to be well-informed and treated with respect throughout your IVF journey.
Summary:
In many IVF clinics, especially those run by corporate chains, doctors are often pressured to meet revenue targets, which can lead to a conflict of interest. Instead of focusing on patient care, doctors may push unnecessary treatments and over-test in order to maximise clinic profits. This business-driven approach often leaves patients feeling confused, rushed, and disrespected. A good doctor should educate their patients, offer clear explanations, and empower them to make their own informed decisions. Transparency, respect, and patient-centred care are key. If you feel uncomfortable with your treatment, seeking a second opinion is a smart and valuable step.
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