Some Muslims Risking Their Lives During Ramadan
I couldn’t believe the headline of this article on the BBC’s web site.
Apparently, Barts and the Royal London Hospital has found that some patients are missing appointments and delaying treatments during the month of Ramadan at great risk to their health.
I’m not sure that any religion would put religious observance above health, but I’m certain if I had any religion, I would defy such a statute.
In fact the article does go on to say that local imans are urging patients to continue with their treatment, so progress is being made. Knowing the hospitals well, I’m saure they are trying as hard as is humanely possible to improve the situation.
Also in these times of austerity, surely we have a moral duty to our fellow citizens not to load extra costs on the NHS. And I would think we also have a moral duty to our friends and relatives to do the best for our health, as they are the ones, who could really suffer in the long term if we stop treatment.
It should be said that “No-shows” are a big cost to the NHS and that is why my hospital, Addenbrookes, has installed an SMS-based system to ensure attendance. Perhaps, those who are persistent non-attenders should go to the back of the queue.
The Anonymous Widower 
Islam is very strict about people NOT putting their health at risk in order to fast during Ramadan – they can delay the fast, or they can do other things instead of fasting. There is concern amongst Muslim leaders about pregnant women fasting when they shouldnt be, they are excused. As are people with diabetes, and people with various long term health issues -I believe it is usually 7 years after cancer treatment until they can fast again.
But some Muslims ignore the advice and fast anyway.
I agree that people who dont show for appts should be to the back of the list. Earlier this year my mother cancelled FOUR appointments for a procedure, one on the morning it was to happen, and once late on the Friday afternoon before it was due to happen on the Monday morning, too late to reallocate. I was furious!
Comment by Liz P | August 20, 2010 |
I think the trouble at the Royal London is that most of the people they are talking about are pretty uneducated with very poor English skills. At least though the imans are backing the hospital. My granddaughter was born in that hospital and you wouldn’t believe the things I saw and the stories I was told. Let’s hope it’s better now!
Comment by AnonW | August 20, 2010 |
I guess we have two issues here, but the most important one is about people following religious believes blindly , if we take a closer look at most of the problems the world is suffering from these days we can see clearly it comes from ignorent people hiding behind religion whatever that religion is and causing terror war and even more ignorence.
Comment by rabih | August 21, 2010 |
I agree! If you take the world’s major religions, they all hsve similar core beliefs about looking after your fellow man etc. I was brought up without sany formal religion, but then I like to think I try to act in a considerate and moral way, to everyone. It’s not for me to judge myself though! I always remember the song “God on our side”
Comment by AnonW | August 21, 2010 |