ABSTRACT
Drawing upon jurisprudence in Canada and the United States that provide accounts of trends in the evolution of alternative medicine, this chapter examines the state of the law on the subject in Nigeria. It exposes on the legal framework governing the practice of indigenous medicine and the nature of the acts and omissions on the part of biomedical professionals that could result in professional liability. The chapter outlines the considerations that can arise in the determination of whether indigenous and alternative healthcare interventions can be regarded as systems of medicine. It examines the legal implications of physician's decision and/or failure to administer indigenous medicine and refer patients to indigenous medical providers when necessary. The chapter summarizes the analysis of the defences that could apply to a malpractice charge against a physician who practises integrated medicine in Nigeria. It discusses the legal implications of integrated medical practice and the defences against an indictment for dual medical practice.
