Bargaining is so embedded in Indians that if I call it a culture, you won’t be surprised. In the era of capitalization, where almost everything is monetized, I think bargaining is more of a skill set now. However, you cannot bargain at Ikea, Zudio, Blinkit, or similar setups. People on these platforms shut up and swipe. Not even a single thought of inexpensive groceries, acidic, useless cold drinks, etc.
But when it comes to their own dental treatment, people treat it as their last priority. It is very disheartening to see people bargaining for 100 rupees for a treatment. In situations where doctors avoid bargaining and stick to their principles, people choose lower-quality products to save money. Save money for what when every bite gives you discomfort, bad bacteria, and an unhygienic breath smell.
The audacity of people to bargain for half the price of the actual treatment price amazes me every single time. Every patient wants the best treatment, but almost nobody wants to appreciate the years their doctor has given to learn and practise those procedures with perfection.
Yes, people don’t bargain when buying a car or a valuable watch. However, they do in treatments.But having a healthy body is what makes them buy those things to enjoy them.
Yes this means more true. We all attempt to bargain to a lot many unnecessary things, not giving a thought to spend our expenses on the products. But when it comes to health and the most essential items… people always tend to take a step back expecting cheaper products
Bargaining is in Indian blood indeed …but Actually dental treatments is costlier than other all except for higher class..one good RCT from a good doctor costs approx 10k..and it’s very big dig in patient’s monthly budget..and I feel like wise in foreign country in india also dental treatments should cover under mediclaim..or provision of separate dental-mediclaim to overcome this cost problem or bargaining issue..
Very interesting take of thought! And I’ve never thought of this but people should really be mindful and think about the efforts of healthcare professionals and not treat them like street vendors to bargain prices! its just not right.
I completely agree with you on that. It’s a common sight at most private dental clinics. I have even seen patients refusing to pay a mere consultation amount, let alone the treatment cost. Initially, I was hesitant to call it out. But now I have made it a practice to simply refuse to do it. However, under special circumstances, like for patients with a poor economic background, I would definitely make an exception. What amazes me is that people who are well-to-do are the ones bargaining most of the time.