Hippocratic

Hippocratic is a poignant documentary released in 2017. The film shines a spotlight on one of India's most well-respected doctors, Dr. M.R. Rajagopal, who is often affectionately referred to as the "father of palliative care in India." This moving narrative offers the audience an intimate look into a day in the life of a doctor who has devoted his career to those dealing with life-limiting illnesses. It gives us a sense of the immense challenges that come with practicing medicine in a culture where discussing death and serious illness openly is often shrouded in stigma and mystery.

The title of the film is drawn from the Hippocratic oath that medical professionals take to uphold certain ethical standards. Hippocratic delves into Dr. Rajagopal's tireless work in treating pain and promoting better end-of-life care in a country where millions of people have limited access to essential pain relief. Still, the film doesn't solely wallow in the harsh realities of India's health care system—it devotes significant time to celebrating Dr. Rajagopal's incredible achievements and unwavering spirit.

As a portrait of Dr. Rajagopal, Hippocratic is an equal mix of informative and deeply personal. The cameras follow this humble, determined man as he navigates the chaotic streets of India with an indefatigable spirit, providing at-home care, mobile clinics, and hospital treatments for those in need. In the film, he constantly reminds us of the age-old truth that every life—no matter how fragile or hopeless it may seem—deserves respect, dignity, and freedom from pain.

This insightful documentary unravels Dr. Rajagopal's journey from his early days in medicine, the experiences that shaped his perspective, and the events leading him to challenge systemic issues in India's health care and legal system. The creators also do an excellent job of weaving in Dr. Rajagopal's personal beliefs, values, and his deep respect for life, death, and the dignity of human beings into the tapestry of the film.

At its core, Hippocratic is a story of hope, resilience, and a relentless fight for change. It highlights the doctor's quest to change India's narcotic laws to allow the use of morphine for palliative care. These moments make the viewers feel the gravity of the obstacle that millions of people face due to these regulations. The film also lays bare the stark realities of working in a country where morphine, a cheap, effective, and indispensable drug for managing severe pain, is highly restricted due to fears of recreational use and addiction.

Simultaneously, Hippocratic paints a vivid picture of the beauty and diversity of India—from the bustling streets of the city to the serene landscapes of rural India. It captures the wide-ranging emotions, from grief and hardship to joy and strength, not only of the patients but also the families that love and care for them. Still, it also brings to light the durable hope and deep-seated resilience that thrive amidst the challenges.

Hippocratic is a compelling study of the reality of pain and suffering and the urgency for palliative care in India. It is a striking testament to the central role of compassion, empathy, and humanity in healthcare. It is a clarion call—reminding the global medical community of their responsibilities beyond just disease treatment. The aim is to provide a focusing lens for discussions and actions on health disparities, the need for compassionate care, and building a healthcare system that responds to the needs of the most marginalized.

The film is undoubtedly a must-watch for audiences across the spectrum, especially those involved in medical and healthcare fields. Hippocratic is much more than a tribute to Dr. M.R. Rajagopal. It gracefully manages to stay away from hagiography, instead providing insightful commentary on healthcare, the fallacy of certain drug regulations, the urgent need for palliative care, and the daily struggles undergone by medical practitioners in developing countries.

Hippocratic is a sobering, yet inspiring affirmation of a physician’s dedication and tireless efforts to bring about change against all odds. It serves as a reminder of the enduring faith in the power of the human spirit that can inspire each of us to strive for a world where access to pain relief is recognized as an essential human right.