In a recent conference held at the Narahenpita National Blood Transfusion Centre, Health Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana announced the allocation of Rs. 5.6 billion from the Treasury to settle essential payments for the supply of medicines. During the event aimed at addressing issues within hospitals and health institutions under the Health Ministry’s jurisdiction, the Minister also pledged to secure additional provisions for medicine supply over the next two months through a Cabinet memorandum.
Minister Pathirana emphasized his commitment to collaborating with the Treasury to clear outstanding bills owed by government hospitals and advancing the quality of healthcare services. He urged the support of all officials to successfully implement these initiatives.
The conference centered on critical matters such as the shortage of medical staff, drugs, and funding amidst the economic crisis, the introduction of the ‘Swasta’ data system, strategies to combat dengue outbreaks, and plans for improving maternal and child nutrition, primary health services, and medical staff training for foreign assignments.
The participants, including Provincial Health Service Directors, Hospital Directors, District Health Service Directors, and Health Ministry officials, resolved to devise short-term and long-term solutions to these issues. They also agreed to monitor progress in future conferences, ensuring the effective implementation of the proposed solutions.
