Surgeries at Homagama hospital come to a standstill

• The matter is being addressed however, it may take a considerable time to find replacements

 By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The management of the Homagama Base Hospital has been compelled to suspend all major surgeries at the hospital due to the lack of surgeons, Daily Mirror learns.  

According to sources,two consultants designated to the hospital have left on reasonable grounds.  

As such, Dr.D. Leelaratne and Dr. Dhammika Wickramasekara were serving as surgeons. However, Dr.Dammika retired in June last year. He secured a job in the UK and is no longer working at the hospital.   

However, Dr Dammika continued working there until the end of December, covering the surgical unit after he rejoined the workforce at the request of the Health Ministry. Besides, Dr. Leelaratne migrated two months ago.  

Rubbing salt into the wound, the attached registrars also left the hospital due to the absence of a supervisor.   

In light of the situation, sources told Daily Mirror that all the surgeries except minor surgeries like wound suturing have been suspended and transferred to the Colombo National Hospital.  
Commenting on the situation, a senior official from the Health ministry said the matter is being addressed; however, it may take a considerable time to find replacements.   
Meanwhile, speaking to Daily Mirror, Homagama Hospital Director Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara refused to comment on the matter as the Health Ministry has barred public officials from releasing statements to the media.