The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has criticised the National Universities Commission (NUC) over its recent decision to elevate the degree titles in Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Optometry to “Doctor” status in Nigerian universities.
The NUC rolled out the changes in January, stating the reforms aim to expand clinical exposure, strengthen core medical education, and improve coverage of specialised areas. However, NARD expressed deep reservations, warning that such changes could have far-reaching negative effects on Nigeria’s already delicate health system.
“Conferring the title ‘Doctor’ on multiple professional groups without public education or structural clarity may confuse patients, worsen interprofessional tensions, and enable quackery in an already fragile health system. Teamwork in care delivery depends on clear roles and trust,” NARD said in a communiqué shared via its official X handle on Thursday.
The doctors’ group argued that for over 20 years, some health professionals have focused more on competing with medical doctors than on strengthening healthcare delivery. NARD added that internationally, there is no established model where pharmacists, physiotherapists, or optometrists in public service earn more or play the same clinical roles as physicians.
It further challenged the NUC’s reliance on “global best practices,” stating that countries like the UK and Germany do not confer the “Doctor” title on these professionals at the undergraduate level. Instead, such titles are reserved for those who complete a PhD, maintaining clear professional boundaries and clinical hierarchies.
“We believe all healthcare professionals should take pride in their unique roles. If one wishes to become a medical doctor, there is a rigorous, defined pathway for that,” the statement said.
NARD called on the NUC to revisit the policy and focus instead on reforms that promote clarity, interprofessional collaboration, and high standards across the healthcare sector.
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