In my family, my father had the desire for one of his children to become a physician, but I never envisioned myself as a doctor due to my nonconformist nature. I have always found the concept of wearing ties in a tropical country like Nigeria to be a colonial mindset. Despite my appreciation for fashion, I have never worn a tie during my 17 years as a journalist.
While I may not resonate with the serious demeanor often associated with doctors, I do acknowledge their keen observational skills. The Hippocratic Oath, attributed to Hippocrates of Kos, emphasizes ethical standards for physicians, emphasizing the importance of patient care and confidentiality.
The discussion shifts to the behavior of medical professionals in Nigeria, particularly doctors who sometimes exhibit a sense of superiority within the medical field. The article questions the alignment of certain medical practices with traditional beliefs and criticizes instances of negligence and mistreatment in Nigerian hospitals.
Drawing a comparison to medical practices in the US, a Nigerian-American doctor highlights the differences in patient rights and legal recourse available in America. She emphasizes the stringent regulations and accountability measures in place in the US healthcare system.
Despite the existence of regulatory bodies in Nigeria, complaints against medical professionals often go unaddressed, and cases of malpractice are not always properly investigated. The article underscores the need for improved oversight and accountability within the Nigerian healthcare system.