The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has called on governments at all levels to immediately stop the appointment of non-doctors into the consultant cadre in hospitals, warning that such practices could endanger patient care and create unhealthy workplace environments.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of its Biennial Delegates’ Meeting (BDM) and Scientific Conference held in Enugu. The communiqué was signed by the newly elected President, Prof. Apollos Ndukuba, and the General Secretary, Dr. Augustustine N. Duru.
MDCAN expressed concern that the continued appointment of consultants in allied medical professions was causing “confusion and chaos” in hospitals, with dire consequences for patient safety.
The association also decried the exclusion of medical professors from contesting for vice chancellorship positions in universities, urging the government to end the disenfranchisement.
Among other resolutions, MDCAN:
Urged governments to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship on citizens.
Called for improved welfare and working environments for doctors and other health professionals to curb the ongoing “Japa” syndrome.
Agreed on the need to expand manpower production but stressed the necessity of adequate infrastructure and personnel for training.
Requested urgent implementation of the government’s 50% subsidy in public hospitals to reduce healthcare costs.
Asked state governments to prioritize the welfare of doctors and health workers in their employment.
Warned against encroachment by allied health professionals into core areas of medical practice, citing risks to the populace.
Expressed worry over non-implementation of the 50% electricity subsidy for hospitals, which it said threatens President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” health agenda.
The meeting also elected new national officers, with Prof. Apollos Ndukuba emerging as President. Other elected officials include:
Prof. Sani Adamu – Vice President I
Prof. Mohammed Abdulrahman – Vice President II
Dr. Augustustine N. Duru – Secretary General
Dr. Olowusi Banji Zacharaiah – Assistant Secretary General
Prof. Chidinma Brenda Nwatu – National Treasurer
Dr. Taiwan Alatishe – National Publicity Secretary
Dr. Peter Teru Yaru – National Auditor
Prof. Mohammed Aminu Mohammed – Ex-officio I
Prof. Daiyabu Alhaji Ibrahim – Ex-officio II
Prof. Titus O. Chukwuanukwu – Editor, NJCP