GMOA warns of deepening crisis in health sector

Colombo, Nov. 11 (Daily Mirror) - The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has warned that Sri Lanka’s free health system is facing a severe crisis, accusing the 2026 Budget of failing to address chronic issues such as shortages of staff, medicines, and essential medical equipment.

In a statement issued following an emergency Central Committee meeting held today (11), the GMOA said the country’s health service had reached a “critical stage”, with hospitals struggling to maintain patient care due to dwindling resources and inadequate facilities.

The association claimed that despite repeatedly informing President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa, and senior Treasury officials about the urgent need for a sustainable plan to strengthen the sector, no meaningful dialogue had taken place.

It also expressed disappointment that the 2026 Budget, presented amid government claims of economic recovery, lacked a clear strategy to protect or reform the public health system.

“Although large allocations have been made for drugs and medical supplies, there is no concrete plan to ensure a continuous supply of quality medicines,” the GMOA said, adding that the Budget failed to prioritize key reforms such as digitalizing procurement processes or establishing a National Drug Quality Control Laboratory.

The association further criticized the absence of measures to retain medical professionals in Sri Lanka or to motivate those who continue to serve in the state health sector.

“It is a historic mistake to ignore the hardships faced by doctors and professionals who remained committed during the crisis,” the GMOA warned.