ABSTRACT
This project investigates the concept of duty of care and its implications for the medical profession in Nigeria. The primary objective is to analyze how the duty of care is defined, interpreted, and applied within the Nigerian healthcare system, and to assess its impact on medical practice, patient safety, and legal accountability. The doctrinal method was utilized, incorporating qualitative research method. Data were gathered through a comprehensive review of relevant legal cases, medical literature, and policy documents, as well as interviews with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and patients. The study focuses on the legal framework governing duty of care in Nigeria, the awareness and understanding of this duty among healthcare providers, and the practical challenges faced in its implementation. The study recommends the enhancement of public awareness about medical negligence, patient rights, and the legal recourse available to victims, implementation of effective licensing and regulatory mechanisms for healthcare practitioners to ensure that they meet the required standards of competence and professionalism and encouragement of healthcare practitioners to engage in ongoing professional development and training to stay updated with the latest medical knowledge and practices. In conclusion, the study underscores the critical importance of duty of care in ensuring patient safety and trust in the medical profession. It calls for concerted efforts by policymakers, healthcare institutions, and professional bodies to strengthen the understanding and enforcement of duty of care in Nigeria. These efforts should include enhanced training for healthcare providers, better resource allocation to healthcare facilities,and increased public awareness initiatives.
