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Resident Doctors Say ‘Doctor’ Title for Pharmacists and Others Could Confuse Patients.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has strongly opposed the recent decision by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to upgrade some health-related degrees in Nigerian universities to doctoral levels.
With this change, students of Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Optometry will now graduate with titles like Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D), Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT), and Doctor of Optometry (OD) instead of traditional bachelor’s degrees.
According to the NUC, the upgrade is meant to meet global standards and improve professional training in these fields by adding more clinical and practical components.
Why Resident Doctors Are Not Happy
NARD believes that this decision may cause unnecessary confusion in Nigeria’s healthcare system. Their major concern is that the public may not be able to tell the difference between a medical doctor and other health professionals who now use the “Doctor” title.
They argue that in hospitals and clinics, only those trained and licensed as medical doctors should be called “Doctor” in a clinical context. The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has also echoed these concerns, insisting on clear role definitions within the health sector.
Support from Other Health Bodies
On the flip side, the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy and JOHESU (Joint Health Sector Unions) have welcomed the NUC’s decision. They see it as long overdue recognition for pharmacists and other allied health professionals who also undergo years of rigorous training.
These groups believe that granting “Doctor” titles is in line with international practice and helps balance professional recognition in the healthcare sector.
What Students and Graduates Should Know
If you are currently studying Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, or Optometry, you may graduate with a doctoral title in the near future. However, professional identity still matters. Regardless of your degree title, it’s essential to understand your scope of practice and communicate it clearly, especially in clinical settings.
Conclusion
The disagreement between medical doctors and other healthcare professionals over the use of the “Doctor” title reflects deeper issues around hierarchy, recognition, and patient communication in Nigeria’s health system. Moving forward, clarity in roles and respect among professionals will be key to a more united healthcare workforce.
We’d Like to Hear from You
Do you support the NUC’s decision? Should pharmacists and other professionals use the “Doctor” title? Share your opinion in the comments.
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