KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE OF GENDER-BASED DISCRIMINATION AMONG MEDICAL DOCTORS AND MEDICAL STUDENTS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Purpose: Discrimination in healthcare setting is worldwide, and it takes many forms which can violate the most fundamental human rights protected in international treaties, and in national laws and constitutions. Experts have argued for more research and sex-disaggregated data in order to strengthen the understanding of gender as it affects health workers, especially in developing countries. The general aim of this research is directed at determining the level of knowledge and experiences of gender-based discrimination and describe their correlates among doctors and medical students in Nigeria. This research is undertaken to x-ray the challenges faced by medical students, and doctors within the health system by virtue of their gender in order to drive focused discussions, and actions towards a lasting solution. Methodology: A Cross- sectional descriptive study design was used on a study population of 353 respondents comprising medical students and doctors from universities and their teaching hospitals in the six (6) geopolitical zones across Nigeria and participating schools were selected through multi-stage random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was employed to gather information and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. Results: It was observed that the highest number of respondents were in the south-south zone (30.7%), with most being females (55.8%). Majority of respondents were between the ages of 21-25 years (42%). High knowledge (96.8%) about gender-based discrimination was demonstrated by respondents and most cases of gender-based discrimination were observed among females (59.2%), with 67.4% of respondents experiencing gender-based discrimination in one form or the other. Males were found to constitute majority of perpetrators (54%) and 91% of victims did not report the incident. The result further showed statistically significant association between personal experience of gender-based discrimination and gender of respondents (p<0.05). Respondents demonstrated good knowledge of gender-based discrimination. It further revealed that gender-based discrimination exist with a prevalence of 67.4%, with differences occurring in the personal experiences of gender-based discrimination by occupation and sex. However, majority of cases were not reported. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practices: Organizing regular seminars to educate medical students and doctors about practices considered to be gender-based discrimination, and developing strict policies against gender-based discrimination in our training institutions (Medical schools/Teaching hospitals).