Today we attended a Scientific Conference hosted by Lagos University Teaching Hospital’s (LUTH) Association of Resident Doctors (ARD).
The theme of the conference was The Impact of Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers (VHFs) on Society; Perspective from a Patient’s Relative.
We were happy to share information about our recently completed training on VHFs for general hospitals in Lagos state as well as speak about Dr. Adadevoh, her team, and the events of Nigeria’s Ebola outbreak in 2014.
DRASA’s MD speaking at LUTH ARD Scientific Conference 2017
In addition to discussing the importance of preparedness for outbreaks and the role doctors play in identifying and containing possible infectious cases, the conference also explored doctors working in public versus private facilities.
We discussed the legal standing of doctors who work in public facilities as public servants but also have their own private practices. This raised the question, should doctors in public service be allowed to engage in private practice?
Distinguished panelists
In fact, some medical students put together a short drama presentation to show the impact of balancing public and private practice:
LUTH medical students acting out a drama
Another interesting discussion raised was the role of doctors as businessmen and women. Everyone agreed on the need for doctors to learn how to manage and run a business and how to manage funds if they intend to go into private practice. In fact, it was said that some doctors should leave research and bedside medicine to work on the business side of healthcare so they can change the face of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
LUTH ARD Scientific Conference 2017 Organizers and Speakers
Some memorable quotes from the event include:
- “As doctors, our calling is to serve our fellow man.” – Dr. Geoff Ohen
- “During your training, try to get entrepreneurship skills. There is more to a Doctor than bedside medicine.” -Dr. Geoff Ohen
- “In the public sector you are not expected to get rewarded for your services beyond your salary.” – Dr. Joseph Chikelue
- “Most of the teaching hospitals are in a pathetic condition. So what are we doing?” -Dr. Muhammad Askira
