Professional Channels Should Be Used To Tackle Medical Malpractices – NMA

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has come out to urge the public to utilise established professional channels and institutions to address their concerns on medical negligence and malpractice.

Dr Adetunji Adenekan, Lagos State NMA Chairman, recently made the appeal in Lagos.

According to him, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) currently have the mandate to investigate and resolve such concerns, and not the consumer protection agency.

He added that the rise in clinical governance-related matters in the country, especially Lagos, has called for due diligence and observance of professionalism.

His words, “The door of the association is also open for complaints about her members.”

“There is a need for us to understand that 21st century medical practice requires us to give optimal care with standard of care in mind as always.”

“We cannot afford to let loose our professional guard while empathy is key and should not be lost on us.”

“The insecurity in the country starting from Boko Haram insurgency has led to reduced access and quality of healthcare services, especially in the North Eastern part of the country.”

“Many have lost their lives and those that are lucky now live in internal displaced persons camps with overcrowding, poor sanitation, food and shelter shortage, malnutrition from starvation and lack of access to basic healthcare.”

“Banditry and kidnapping have been on the rise, extending to all parts of the country with increasing tension in the South West, including Lagos.”

“Many members of NMA have been kidnapped all over the country and obviously no end for now.”

“Healthcare professionals are citizens and must be protected in the course of carrying out their legitimate duties.”