The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over a proposed bill seeking to impose criminal penalties on doctors and financial sanctions on hospitals for delays in providing emergency medical treatment.
The proposed legislation has reportedly sparked concerns among medical practitioners, particularly over provisions that could see doctors sentenced to up to six months in prison, while hospitals face fines of ₦300,000 for alleged delays in emergency care.
According to reports, the bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, has passed its second reading in the Senate and seeks to amend the National Health Act, 2014.
Among its major provisions is a requirement for hospitals to begin emergency patient assessment within 15 minutes of arrival and commence basic stabilisation measures within 30 minutes. It also proposes clear timelines for hospital admission, referral and transportation of patients requiring specialised care.
However, NARD has argued that imposing criminal penalties without addressing the challenges facing the country’s healthcare system would unfairly expose doctors to punishment for circumstances beyond their control.
The association cited inadequate medical equipment, shortage of healthcare personnel, unreliable electricity supply, poor hospital infrastructure and insufficient emergency resources as some of the challenges affecting effective service delivery.
It maintained that doctors should not be held responsible for failures caused by years of inadequate investment in the health sector.
NARD also warned that the proposed legislation could worsen the migration of medical professionals from Nigeria if healthcare workers continue to face difficult working conditions without adequate government support.
The association called on lawmakers to reconsider the proposed punitive provisions and prioritise improved hospital funding, modern medical equipment, adequate staffing and stronger emergency services.
It warned that if the National Assembly proceeds with the proposed provisions, it would consider all lawful options, including a nationwide strike.
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