The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has issued a stern warning to newly graduated doctors against disrespecting patients and displaying arrogance towards senior colleagues in the profession.
Dr. Fatima Kyari, Registrar of MDCN, delivered this caution on Wednesday during the 3rd induction ceremony at Gregory University Uturu, Abia State, where 83 new doctors took their professional oath.
Speaking through her representative, Dr. Tijjani Mandaka, the Registrar emphasized the critical responsibilities these new medical professionals now bear in safeguarding lives and improving public health standards across Nigeria.
Professional Ethics and Patient Dignity
"You must exhibit humility and kindness to the patients' welfare. Every patient you encounter deserves respect," Dr. Kyari stated, highlighting the fundamental values expected of medical practitioners.
The Registrar urged the new doctors to maintain strict adherence to medical ethics, warning that unprofessional conduct could attract severe sanctions from the regulatory body. She also advised them to properly file all necessary documentation for their housemanship programs.
Additionally, Dr. Kyari counseled the graduates on the importance of knowing when to seek second opinions from colleagues and when patient referrals are necessary, emphasizing the collaborative nature of medical practice.
University Leadership Charges Graduates
Professor Celestina Njoku, Vice Chancellor of Gregory University, and Mr. Okechukwu Gregory Ibe Jr., Chancellor, both addressed the new doctors during the ceremony. They challenged the graduates to play pivotal roles in healthcare delivery while maintaining their status as worthy ambassadors of the institution.
The university leaders noted that contemporary healthcare faces unprecedented challenges requiring the specialized skills and understanding that these newly inducted medical professionals now possess.
This induction comes at a critical time when Nigeria's healthcare system continues to evolve amid various challenges, making the MDCN's emphasis on professionalism and ethical conduct particularly significant for the next generation of medical practitioners.
