Browsing by Author "Oyeyemi Juliannah OMOPE"

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    Ethical and legal Consequences of Medical Negligence in Nigeria’s Healthcare system
    (Lead City University, Ibadan, 2024-12) Oyeyemi Juliannah OMOPE
    Health is a crucial asset for human existence. The relationship between health care providers and patients is one built on trust, with an inherent expectation that medical practitioners will act in the best interest of their patients. However, this delicate balance can be disrupted when a patient suffers harm as a result of medical negligence which may in turn trigger questions of legal liability. The study critically appraised Ethical and legal Consequences of Medical Negligence in Nigeria’s Healthcare system. This study will use a doctrinal approach to analyze legal rules in primary source, including the Constitution of Nigeria, Medical and Dental Practitioners Act, Rules of Professional Conduct, The Nigerian Criminal Code, The Nigerian Penal Code, and Evidence Act, as well as secondary source which including textbook, articles in journals and relevant internet material. This research discovered that despite 80% of medical practitioners having some education related to medical ethics, the incidence of medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in the Nigerian health care sector does not reflect the knowledge base of a system of accountability. In conclusion, the health workforce should undergo routine re-orientation, including training in Interpersonal Communication skills and work ethics, to enhance client satisfaction and improve care quality. Recognition, reward, and sanctions will be implemented, and mechanisms for performance monitoring will be established. Keywords: Medical negligence, ethics, legal consequences, health care system, medical practitioners, re-orientation, interpersonal communication skill, mechanism, monitoring. Word Count: 215