The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has strongly advocated for the immediate treatment of accident and gunshot patients at hospitals, emphasizing that medical care should not be contingent on the availability of a police report or approval.
The announcement was made during a training session on the Implementation of the Patients Bill of Rights (PBoR) held at the Bristol Palace Hotel in Kano.
The theme of the training, titled “Strengthening Patient-centered Care: A Health Care Provider Training,” focused on enlightening doctors and nurses about the intricacies of the Patients Bill of Rights, aiming to ensure that healthcare providers recognize their obligations and the rights of patients while performing their duties.
Mr. Babatunde Irukera, the FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), highlighted the commission’s stance that accident and gunshot victims have the right to receive emergency treatment before determining the circumstances surrounding their injuries. He emphasized the prioritization of saving human lives above other considerations.
Irukera, represented by the Commission’s Executive Commissioner, Operations, Dr. Adamu Ahmad Abdullahi, stated that the training aimed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge of PBoR, enabling them to train others on the importance of adhering to and upholding patients’ rights. The FCCPC sees this initiative as a significant nationwide effort to protect and uphold patients’ rights in healthcare facilities across Nigeria.
The comprehensive program involves adopting PBoR principles and guidelines, raising awareness among healthcare providers and the general public, and engaging various stakeholders in the healthcare value chain. The FCCPC aims to integrate patient-centered care principles effectively across the entire healthcare landscape in Nigeria, fostering a culture of respect for patients’ rights and well-being.
