Fuss over availability of contact lenses and surgical delays

• TUs say surgeries on the verge of coming to a halt    

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

Health officials have made conflicting statements regarding the availability of contact lenses within the hospital system, as well as the potential for delays in surgeries. 

  All Ceylon Nurses’ union alleged that the surgeries in the hospital system are on the verge of coming to a halt as there is an acute shortage.   
Meanwhile, Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) said there is a shortage of contact lenses even in the private sector, and thus, people are not in a position to buy owing to their exorbitant prices.   
However, the Ministry of Health has reassured the public that contact lens surgeries are being carried out without a hitch in the country’s hospital system, and there is no cause for concern.   

Dr. Kapila Wickramanayake, Director of the Medical Supply Division, confirmed that the necessary contact lenses have been distributed to hospitals until November. Thus, Dr. Wickramanayake reiterated that there is no shortage of contact lenses in the hospital system and that surgeries are currently being performed without any issues.   

He explained that in May, the Medical Supplies Division provided hospitals with a six-month supply of contact lenses. This ensures that the approximately 10,000 cataract surgeries performed each month across the island can continue without interruption. The Director further stated that the hospitals have received enough contact lenses to last until November, and the Medical Supply Division has the required quantity for the next two months.   

“The six-month requirement was determined through collaboration with the Asian Development Bank, and the contact lenses were promptly distributed to hospitals across the country,” he added