Colombo — Former MP and Western Provincial Council Minister Gamini Thilakasiri has come forward with serious allegations of medical negligence at the Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, claiming he lost consciousness for over two days and suffered severe complications after being administered a vaccine—despite prior warnings of his known allergies.
Thilakasiri, who was admitted to the hospital for treatment of a small tumor behind his left ear, said he had informed doctors in advance about his allergic reactions to certain medications. However, he claims the hospital staff proceeded with the vaccine without adequate precautions, triggering a medical emergency that left him unconscious for more than 48 hours and physically injured after falling out of bed during the episode.
“I was hospitalized to remove a small tumor and hoped to be back home in time for the New Year,” Thilakasiri said. “But due to their negligence, I ended up being admitted for five days and incurred a bill of Rs. 272,000, which I had to pay using my credit card.”
Despite raising the issue with the hospital director in writing, Thilakasiri says he has yet to receive even an acknowledgment, let alone an apology or assurance of accountability.
“I sent an official letter requesting an inquiry and disciplinary action. But it’s disappointing that the director has not responded— not even with a simple message,” he said.
When contacted, Specialist Dr. Ratnasiri Hewage, Director of Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, confirmed that a legal-led committee has been appointed to investigate all complaints.
“If a complaint has been lodged regarding this incident, it would have already been referred to the committee. The findings will be made available in due course,” Dr. Hewage stated.
This incident adds to growing concerns about transparency and patient safety in public hospitals, with Thilakasiri calling for a thorough investigation and public accountability.
“I could have lost my life. What if this happened to someone who didn’t have the resources to fight back?” the former minister asked.
The public now awaits the outcome of the hospital’s inquiry, which could set a precedent for handling cases involving patient harm and alleged medical malpractice in Sri Lanka’s healthcare system.
