National-Association-of-Resident-Doctors-NARD
Picnews
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) have called on hospitals across the country to provide immediate medical treatment to gunshot victims without waiting for police reports. They emphasized that saving lives should be the top priority of healthcare workers and institutions, especially in emergencies involving gunshot wounds.
Both bodies expressed concern that the insistence on police documentation before treatment has led to avoidable deaths, as many victims often bleed to death while awaiting clearance. They reminded healthcare providers that the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act mandates all medical facilities to treat such cases without fear of legal repercussions.
The associations also urged law enforcement agencies to cooperate with medical personnel rather than intimidate or harass them for performing their duties. They stressed that while documentation and reporting to the police can follow later, the immediate focus must remain on stabilizing and saving the victim’s life.
Furthermore, NARD and NMCN encouraged hospitals to create awareness among their staff and the public on the provisions of the law, ensuring that no one is denied medical attention because of bureaucratic processes. They maintained that adherence to this directive would promote humanity, strengthen the health sector’s ethical standards, and uphold the sanctity of life.
