The Health Ministry has set aside a substantial amount of Rs. 5.6 billion from the Treasury to address the essential payments for the procurement of medicines, Minister of Health and Industries, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana said.

He said a memorandum will be submitted to the Cabinet to secure additional provisions for the supply of medicines over the next two months.

Dr. Pathirana made these remarks during a special conference held today (27), targeting the identification of existing challenges within hospitals and health institutes under the Ministry of Health. The conference aimed to facilitate prompt and effective solutions to these issues, particularly those affecting basic hospitals.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pathirana, stated that a detailed action plan will be devised to settle all pending bills for government hospitals in the near future.

Furthermore, discussions were held during the conference concerning the shortage of healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, both in main hospitals and regional facilities. The scarcity of medicines in hospitals was also a key topic of debate. Attendees also deliberated on forthcoming measures for the well-being of mothers and children, while exploring the possibility of assigning staff from external companies to partner with the health sector in addressing these challenges.

"With discussions and plans put in motion, there is renewed hope for addressing the pressing issues and improving the overall healthcare landscape in the country," the Minister added.