Not warning the abuse of the title ‘Doctor’, warning more and more public confusion in health care

The Nigerian Resident Doctor Association (NARD) has issued a strong warning to the use of “doctors” inappropriate titles in the health care sector, citing greater concerns over patient safety and public confusion.

This attention follows the latest developments in the UK, where the National Health Services (NHS) are reportedly changing the names of fellow doctors after a formal review found that their appointment often misleads patients to think they as medical quality doctors. The review concluded that the use of the title “Doctor” by non-medical professionals has created widespread confusion and has a risk for public trust in the medical profession.

Tope Osundara, President Nard, said in a statement released on Friday that the British decision reflects the concern that has encouraged the ongoing public awareness campaign in Nigeria. This campaign seeks to educate the public about how to distinguish medical doctors who meet the requirements of other health professionals who can use the title “DR” without undergoing formal medical training.

“While we strongly support the progress and recognition of all health care workers, we must oppose practices that deepen confusion and dysfunction in a tense health care system,” Osundara said.

He expressed concern that people who advocate for the use of the title “DR”, often quoting international precedents, are now wrestling with the impact of the ambiguity. “The titles that obscure the boundaries between medical and other professional trained doctors compromises public safety and contribute to the increasing incidents of shamanism,” he said.

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Osundara noted that some cases of patient damage and even death have occurred due to clinical treatment given by individuals who do not have the right qualifications but use the title “DR”. He stressed the need for clarity in the professional title to maintain the structural integrity of the Nigerian health care system.

“It is our duty to ensure that the community can clearly identify who is trained and licensed to provide medical treatment. This is not about antagonism or professional competition, this is about protecting life,” he said.

Nard asked all health professionals to show ethical responsibility by refraining from misinterpreting their qualifications or exploiting public confusion for recognition or profit.

“We remain committed to collaboration, professional integrity, and the highest patient care standards,” Osundara said, urgent for more responsible and transparent dialogue in the health care community.