Health authorities in hot water over critical health issues...

By Sheain Fernandopulle

The health authorities including Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella have been reprimanded over existing issues plaguing the health sector.   

This was evident in the recent discussions held between senior health officials and Chief of the Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, where he stressed that any negligence on the part of the Ministry of Health resulting in harm to patients should not be excused.  

“Instead, necessary measures should be promptly implemented to ensure the comfort and well-being of the affected patients,” Ratnayaka highlighted.  

Attending the discussion were Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Secretary of the Ministry of Health, and a group of senior officials.   

During the discussion, areas such as shortages of medicines and medical equipment, concerns about the quality of medicines, and challenges in the procurement process were taken into account.  

It was decided during the discussion to explore negotiations with international organizations to alleviate the financial difficulties faced by the Ministry of Health.   

The healthcare sector is grappling with an array of issues re inferior quality of medicines, shortage of drugs and medicinal equipment, dearth of medical specialists, ad hoc procurement 
of medicines, etc.