Radiologists in Nigeria have received counsel to prioritize the protection of patients’ information to avoid legal consequences. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, conveyed this advice during the sixth annual general meeting and scientific conference of the Association of Radiologists in Nigeria and the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Association of Radiologists in West Africa in Abuja.
Prof Pate, represented by Dr Jimoh Salaudeen, the Director of Hospital Services at the FMoH&SW, highlighted the rising litigations in the medical practice sector due to increased awareness among patients regarding their rights. He stressed the importance of addressing data security challenges, emphasizing that leaks of patients’ information should be taken seriously. The minister urged the use of appropriate and efficient technology to safeguard against unauthorized access to the system.
He further emphasized the crucial role of accurate diagnosis in the management of various disease conditions, a role prominently played by radiology practice.
The National President of ARIN, Prof Sule Saidu, urged the Federal Government and other stakeholders to enhance their commitment to improving service delivery, training, and research in healthcare. This commitment, according to him, would align with global best practices and contribute to curbing medical tourism and brain drain.
Prof Saidu appealed to government bodies at different levels to focus on providing more diagnostic equipment for the radiology practice, ensuring the sector’s growth and efficiency.
Dr Agaja James, Chairman of ARIN at the Federal Capital Territory and Local Organising Committee, expressed concern about the migration of medical practitioners from rural to urban areas. He noted the significant migration trend in the Sub-Sahara region and beyond. Dr James called on the government to find lasting solutions to this issue, emphasizing the need to prevent the imminent collapse of the health sector.
