The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has raised serious concerns over the state of Sri Lanka’s free public healthcare system, warning that it is on the brink of crisis.
The GMOA criticised the 2026 Budget for failing to tackle persistent problems, including shortages of medical staff, essential medicines, and critical equipment.
In a statement released following an emergency Central Committee meeting on Tuesday (11), the GMOA described the national health service as having reached a “critical stage,” with hospitals struggling to maintain patient care due to dwindling resources and poor facilities.
It emphasized that despite repeatedly alerting President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, and senior Treasury officials to the urgent need for a sustainable strategy, no meaningful dialogue had taken place.
While acknowledging that the 2026 Budget allocated significant funds for drugs and medical supplies, the GMOA criticized the lack of a concrete plan to ensure a continuous supply of quality medicines.
The statement also highlighted the absence of key reforms, such as digitalizing procurement processes or establishing a National Drug Quality Control Laboratory.
The GMOA also expressed concern over the government’s failure to implement measures to retain medical professionals or motivate doctors continuing to serve in the state health sector.
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