A Consultant Clinical Microbiologist and Public Health Expert, Prof. Kenneth Iregbu, has advised Nigerians to always consult their healthcare providers before undergoing any medical test.
Iregbu, of the National Hospital Abuja, gave the advice on Thursday at the opening of the College of Nigerian Pathologists (CNP) 20th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting in Ibadan.
It was reported that the theme of the conference is “Diagnostic Imperative: From the Patient to the Laboratory,” with a sub-theme, “Medicolegal Flashpoints of Laboratory Medicine Practice in Nigeria.”
Delivering the keynote address, Iregbu stressed the importance of proper diagnosis, noting that no patient should enter a healthcare facility without receiving a clear understanding of their illness.
“It is not right for people to walk into any laboratory and request tests, as is commonly practiced,” he said. “Every test must have a medical basis. You need to consult your healthcare provider first, who will decide what is necessary after examining you.”
According to him, physicians determine essential tests based on patients’ complaints and findings, adding that the health system must prioritize early identification of illnesses for timely intervention.
Iregbu also urged health practitioners to eliminate discrimination in healthcare based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion or any other social category.
“Despite the emergence of high-tech digital systems in laboratory practice, we must not neglect the essential processes required to ensure accurate results and quality patient care,” he said.
He further encouraged healthcare workers to embrace lifelong learning, conduct meaningful research, and maintain professional boundaries.
“The ethics are clear—doctors must not pursue sexual or improper emotional relationships with patients,” he added.
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Abiodun Ilesanmi, acknowledged the shortage of manpower in pathology subspecialties across tertiary institutions and described human resources as critical for strengthening service delivery.
“We must consistently think outside the box to ensure quality and impactful service to the nation,” he said.
Earlier, CNP National President, Maj.-Gen. Olatilewa Amusu (Rtd.), said the conference theme was timely. He noted that pathologists are doctors and vital specialists in diagnosis, even though they are not often seen directly by patients.
“Many health workers do not realize that the training and competence of laboratory physicians enable them to function effectively in both clinical and laboratory settings,” he said. “Despite our critical role in patient management, many still do not understand who the pathologist is or the extent of our contribution.”
The LOC Chairman, Dr. Uwom Eze, said the college had, for the first time, incorporated medical students into the conference, noting that they represent the future of pathology in Nigeria and beyond.
Eze, who is also the Oyo State CNP Chairman, said the event created a multidisciplinary platform for interaction between pathologists and other medical specialists.
“Patient care is most effective when there is robust communication and collaboration between pathologists and physicians,” he said. “Pathology is the bedrock of medicine, and all stakeholders, including government, must prioritize patient well-being.”
