For a time, doctors were expected to present themselves in a manner conforming to society's expectations.
Dr. Sarah Gray expressed her relief knowing that those days were over.
Dr. Gray, an intern from Adelaide is heavily tattooed, has piercings, and unique hair color.
She said that she witnessed how the attitude towards physical appearance changed over time.
Older patients may have expectations towards health professionals to act, dress, and present themselves in an appropriate manner.
However, we should notice that this thing changes as well.
The appearance of doctors has been less stringent, making it more relatable to patients which in turn, affects the doctor-patient relationship.
Dr. Gray said that her relationship with patients improved as her patients became more open and relaxed sharing themselves.
Also, her physical appearance may be a talking point as well.
Patients who also have tattoos and piercings usually compliment her physical appearance.
Dr. Gray acknowledges the fact that some patients may find her physical appearance in a negative manner. However, she doesn’t seem to be affected by it at all.
She said that she isn’t conservative especially when talking about physical appearances.
Currently, Dr. Gray spent 350-400 hours just being inked up and still has plans to further it by getting a bodysuit that will cover her whole body except her face.
She also shares an experience with her husband who is also in the body art industry.
In fact, the couple already put up their own tattoo parlor with different clients, some came from the medical profession.
Dr. Gray said that she is completely aware of the stigma surrounding tattooed people. However, this is not enough to dictate people how they should express themselves.
Tattoos do not affect how people live at any cost. Having a desire to progress in one’s career is enough to make things work and body art, in general, won’t be a hindrance.
She said that other GPs should not be affected by how people perceive and judge their appearance. Competency isn’t reduced to one’s physical appearance.
