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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Comment
Ranjana Srivastava

I am a doctor and I am constantly surprised at the barriers to accessing the public hospital system

hand of an older person being held by a person wearing a lab coat
‘The helping hand I extend to others is what most doctors do for their patients. It is impossible to witness need and reject the power to help,’ writes Ranjana Srivastava. Photograph: Cavan Images/Getty Images/Cavan Images RF

“I am so sorry to bother you, but I just don’t know who to turn to.”

I immediately recognise the voice of an old acquaintance. Having only ever known her as a calm, mellifluous voice, I am surprised. Her usually healthy husband has been diagnosed with cancer. Shifting between doctors for some time, they have been told to see an oncologist. How does one find an oncologist? Are private hospitals better than public?

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