As the COVID-19 pandemic rages in Wisconsin, doctors stand on the front lines, caring for critically ill patients infected by the coronavirus.

But, according to President Donald Trump, doctors are inflating the death toll for financial gain.

Just like veterans shouldn’t have to defend serving their country, I never thought I’d have to defend doctors caring for sick patients, especially after hundreds have died fighting the battle. But here I am.

Doctors must provide clear documentation when billing for their care. Misreporting medical conditions is a crime and violates ethical principles our profession considers sacrosanct. No financial incentive replaces lost family time and the compounded threat to our well-being.

The truth is, health care workers have taken pay cuts while continuing to care for the sick. Hospitals and outpatient clinics have closed, resulting in the loss of an estimated $200 billion and communities losing access to care.

When the president points his finger, there are consequences.

Last March, he pointed to the calendar and said the virus would go away by Easter. It didn’t, and 230,000 have died.

Then, he turned his criticism toward our nation's leading infectious disease expert, Anthony Fauci. Chants to "Fire Fauci" echoed across his rallies as if he were a contestant on "The Apprentice," the reality TV show Trump once hosted.

Now, while doctors stand on the front lines, a line the president has never walked let alone seen, his hot finger points at us. Despite the scorching light cast on us, we will continue to do our job, even if the president doesn't do his.

Jayshil (Jay) Patel, MD, is a critical care doctor who cares for coronavirus patients in the Milwaukee area.