Preventing and Mitigating Inter-Professional Conflict Among Healthcare Professionals in Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The primary obligation of healthcare professionals is the well-being of patients. Inter-professional conflict can prevent the achievement of this goal, thereby potentially putting patients in peril. This study aimed at articulating contextual strategies to mitigate and prevent inter-professional conflict among healthcare workers in Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional study was undertaken in various health facilities in Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered to healthcare professionals. Completed questionnaires were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were undertaken. Results: A total of 2207 valid responses were included for analysis. Findings revealed that almost all the respondents (92.9%) indicated that the Ministry of Health has a key role in resolving conflict in the healthcare sector. Close to three quarters (70.4%) of the study participants disagreed that leadership of hospitals and health agencies be limited to a particular profession. Almost all the participants (90.15%) indicated that cognate administrative expertise and experience are critical for leadership. A strong majority of the sample (93.5%) opined that reforms are required in the leadership selection process of hospital and other healthcare agencies. Conclusion: Due to the criticality of this issue to patients’ access to healthcare, findings from this study can underpin a proactive evidence based strategy that can comprehensively address inter-professional conflict among healthcare workers in Nigeria.