Dr Kushal Agarwal, MBBS, MD, FNNF, is the first qualified Neonatologist in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and currently serves as the Head of the Department of Pediatrics. He is the founder and owner of the first NICU in Uttarakhand to be accredited by DNB, NNF, QCI, and NABH.
Dr Agarwal completed his schooling at The Doon School, Dehradun, and DPS RK Puram, followed by his MBBS from UCMS & GTB Hospital under Delhi University. He pursued his MD in Pediatrics from Government Medical College, Meerut, and superspecialty training in Neonatology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi.
With over 13 years of experience, Dr Kushal has established himself as a leading expert in neonatal and pediatric care, bringing advanced facilities and specialized expertise to the region. In a conversation with THIP Media, Dr Agarwal highlights the importance of health literacy for new mothers.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
One of the most common mistakes people make while communicating with doctors is bringing up myths—especially those related to newborn care, feeding practices, and the debate of mother’s milk versus cow’s milk.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
Health literacy means following practices that are scientifically proven, which is especially important during the delicate newborn stage—otherwise, well-intentioned actions may cause more harm than good.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
When patients are well-informed, they actively participate in their treatment process. This involvement not only helps them understand their condition better but also leads to improved compliance, making recovery more effective.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Accurate medical information plays a key role in improving treatment compliance. When patients clearly understand their condition, the purpose of medications, and the expected outcomes, they are more likely to follow medical advice consistently and achieve better results.
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
Some of the most common myths and misinformation include giving honey to newborns, offering water or tea at an early age, and substituting mother’s milk with cow or buffalo milk.
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
The most common advice I give my patients is to always confirm any information they find online with their pediatrician. Not everything on the internet is reliable, and professional guidance ensures the safety and well-being of the child.
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