The Nigerian Resident Doctors Association (NARD) strongly opposes the recent decision of the National University Committee (NUC) to upgrade the nomenclature of degree programs in pharmacy, physical therapy and optometry from the bachelor’s degree and the “doctor” status of the University of Nigeria.
NUC implemented the changes in January and explained that the decision was driven by the inclusion of more clinical and practical meetings, increasing basic curriculum coverage, improving clinical skills and comprehensively addressing decisions in all areas of expertise.
However, the Nigerian Residents Association said the move could have unexpected consequences.
The association said on Thursday, May 9, on X: “Granting the title ‘Doctor’ to multiple professional groups without public education or structural clarity may confuse patients, worsen tensions across the road and achieve Quackery in an already fragile health system.
Nader also noted that over the past two decades, other groups of health worker have become increasingly focused on competing with doctors rather than driving systemic improvements.
The association further believes that there is no precedent for pharmacists, physical therapists or optometrists in public institutions to earn more than doctors, explaining that patients often seek medical attention worldwide for doctors to make diagnostic and treatment decisions.
While NUC cites “global best practices,” the association notes that countries such as the UK and Germany do not award pharmacists or physical therapists the title after undergraduate training, but through a PhD, it emphasizes clear clinical boundaries and strong governance.
“We believe that all healthcare professionals should be proud of their unique role. If you want to be a doctor, there is a strict, defined pathway.”
Please see the full statement of NARD below.
