Hi everyone!

I am in Li Ka Shing Library as I start my blog post for the sixth lesson of the term. This is my first time doing my work in the school library, and I must say I am appalled to see so many students studying so diligently at every floor and every corner of the library! Technology has indeed brought about such an extensive change in our lives that we can now do research so efficiently and thus, increasing our learning capabilities. Due to technology, we have air-conditioning systems in place, electricity to provide us light (and allow us to stay in the library so late in the night), and aid us in becoming more knowledgeable in the fastest possible way! (Compared to people in the past when reading tangible books was one of the main ways to absorb certain information). Now, besides having tangible books to aid us in our research, we can google to search for us what sort of information we need. I am so glad I am born in this era!

Time to talk about what was discussed during Lesson 6! On Tuesday, Professor Shahi addressed the topic on ‘Biobusiness Revolution- Healthcare and Biomedical Sciences (Past, Present and Future)’. I feel that it was a pretty interesting lesson as the lesson revolved around Healthcare. It is an issue that relates to each and every one of us as encountering certain kind of illnesses is presumably unavoidable. To some extent, governments are responsible in providing us an adequate amount of healthcare services. Also, it is not just about having the governments to subsidize healthcare costs for patients; it is also about having to provide access to healthcare services for them.

Out of all the readings, I found reading 4 particularly interesting and insightful.

The title for this reading is ‘Will Disruptive Innovations Cure Health Care’. The writers were highly supportive of disruptive innovations in the healthcare industry. They felt that by allowing disruptive innovations to be the ‘dominant’ player in the field could the problems of healthcare be solved. Such disruptive innovations include introducing ‘cheaper, simpler and more convenient products of services’ that caters to the less demanding patients who do not require complex technologies to solve their health problems. With regards to their viewpoints, I agree with them that disruptive innovations can certainly help to alleviate some of the pressing problems today. For instance, treatments that are more expensive and complicated often cater to the higher end of the market and neglect; or rather reject patients who are unable to afford such service. Even nurses, who have received an adequate level of training, are able to perform simple treatment for patients. This, coupled with what was discussed during the video ‘Health Vision’ played in class (patients can self monitor their own health status), can certainly improve the efficiency of healthcare treatment and allow patients to get well sooner.

Lastly, I would like to provide my insights on organ training (an issue brought up by one of the presenters during the lesson). So, what exactly is wrong with organ trading? Do you think it should be legalized in any society?

Well, I feel that it is presumably undeniable that organ trading is beneficial to both parties—the seller and the buyer. After selling his organ, the seller receives the large amount of money that he deserves. Sellers are usually in dire need of money and thus with organ trading, they are able to receive instant cash/credit to solve any of their cash-flow problems in the short term. On the other hand, the buyer is given the ‘gift of life’ immediately as well. If such monetary compensation is able to draw the attention of the potential organ sellers, why ban organ trading when it has the power to save another’s life? It can be a win-win situation for both sides.

However, organ trading is not all that risk-free. There are bound to have negative side effects for the seller. This, together with the possible outcome of the rich exploiting the poor, can cause further problems for everyone. For instance, there are cases in India whereby the sellers are only given a measly sum for their organs or in even worse cases, some are ‘forced’ to give up their organs. With regards to this, I feel that governments can consider stepping up to ensure the organ trading business is regulated well and there are proper procedures put in place. Ultimately, every person has his own right to decide for himself what he wants to do with his organs.

I would give this lesson a rating of 8/10! J