Sri Lanka’s Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa admitted the government cannot supply all medicines requested by specialists due to financial constraints. He outlined current procurement priorities, decentralised purchasing protocols, and the impact of past financial frauds on the Ministry of Health.
Government Admits It Can’t Supply All Specialist Medicines – Priority Given to Essential Drugs
Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa acknowledged that the government is currently unable to supply all the medicines requested by medical specialists across the country. Speaking at a press conference at the Government Information Department following cabinet decisions, Dr. Jayatissa said that only the most essential and high-demand medicines are being prioritised due to ongoing economic constraints.
The Minister added that the government will allocate more resources to supply additional medications and surgical items once the economy improves. Until then, steps are being taken to ensure that regional healthcare institutions have the autonomy to procure critical medicines and equipment independently.
“In cases where medicine supply is delayed, regional directors have been authorised to purchase required items. Once a specialist makes a request, the hospital director can submit it to the Medical Supplies Division with the approval of the pharmacist,” the Minister explained.
He noted that Rs. 3,500 crore had been allocated in the previous national budget specifically for purchasing locally manufactured medicine.
However, Dr. Jayatissa pointed out that the Ministry of Health has been under strain due to major financial frauds perpetrated by officials and the former Minister of Health. These incidents, he said, have significantly impacted the ministry’s operational capacity.
Currently, the Medical Supplies Division provides 862 types of medicines and 12,444 surgical instruments to hospitals. While the Ministry of Health prepares the official procurement list, it does so in consultation with specialist doctors at major hospitals.
Out of the total medications listed, tenders have been called for 432 types of medicines and 5,906 surgical items through the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Dr. Jayatissa warned that despite ongoing efforts, occasional disruptions in the supply chain for certain medicines and surgical items are likely to continue.
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