Dr Vinayak S KINNAL responds to ThinkWellness360 questionnaire.
Why and how did you think of becoming a doctor?
It was my dream since childhood. And, like most kids around, who were in awe of doctors, although there were others who wanted to be airline pilots, army officers, IAS, and so on. For me, being a doctor was just about everything — albeit I did not have a ghost of an idea as to what it would take to be one.
What made you think of, study and specialise in the system of medicine you now practice?
During my undergraduate years, I got a chance to work with a distinguished district surgeon in my hometown [Haveri, Karnataka]. I was hugely inspired by his passion — also, the dedication with which he performed his surgeries.
What has been your personal and professional experience as a doctor?
I am passionate about my profession; I’m happy when my patients get cured and, more importantly, bless me.
What unique and special skills you think you have that has made the big difference for your patients?
I try to make my patient understand the cause for, and of, their suffering and educate them on the value of adopting a healthy lifestyle. More than anything else, I always emphasise on the prevention of disease in the first place — because, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.
What is your best definition of optimal wellness and why?
For me, optimal wellness is having a stress-free life, because stress affects both physical and mental health — in more ways than one. Also, the absence of any health issue will have no bearing on health, if the person is often stressed and is unable to enjoy life.
Your ‘best’ case?
An old lady with chronic non-healing venous ulcer. She had consulted several multispecialty hospitals, but did not get any relief. I was able to treat her successfully with simple Ayurveda medications.
Your ‘not-so-good’ case?
One of my patients with fistula-in-ano did not get cured completely — despite my best effort.
What appeals to you the most?
Ability, skill and experience.
What annoys you the most?
Patients not following my advice and resorting to self-medication.
Your favourite book?
Sushruta Samhita.
Your favourite joke?
A patient came to me with severe pain in her right knee for which I suggested X-ray. During the process, she also kept her right hand index finger on her knee. When asked why she kept her index finger on the knee, she innocently said that she’d pain in it too.
Your favourite song?
Samjhawan [Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania/Arijit Singh/Shreya Ghoshal/Kumaar/Ahmad Anees/Sharib Toshi/Jawad Ahmed].
Your favourite movie?
Nothing in particular — which is quite unusual.
Your favourite TV, Netflix show?
I’m hooked to News Channels.
Your other interests, or hobbies?
Travelling and exploring new places; also, long drives.
Your goal in life?
To handle all medical and invasive procedures, considered essential in my area of practice, to the best of my ability; also competently. To provide affordable healthcare services aimed at preventing health issues and to maintaining optimal health and wellness.
