24 Jul 2024 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By D.G.Sugathapala
Trade Union Alliance of Doctors for Civil Rights expressed concern about the re-emergence of a shortage of drugs in government hospitals.
President of the trade union alliance Medical Specialist Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa told the media in Galle yesterday that several hospitals including the Colombo National Hospital has been facing a shortage of anaesthetics while several substandard drugs imported to the country have been withdrawn from use.
He pointed out that the shortage of drugs would affect surgical operations and the treatment of serious illnesses.
“It is in serious doubt whether the health sector is facing the re-emergence of crises experienced in recent times. The patients who seek treatment at government hospitals under the free health service are compelled to buy drugs and medical equipment required for surgery from the market. More than five-sevenths of the drugs prescribed are not available in the hospital. It is a clear indication that a normal service is not available to the patients.
Under the procurement procedure, the purchase of drugs would be subject to the lowest quotations. However, the emergency purchase system and the local purchases result in a vast expenditure to the health sector,” he further said.
He requested the Minister of Health and the Ministry Secretary to address this serious issue which should be resolved soon.
07 Sep 2024 7 hours ago
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024