Hospital staff protest against medicine shortage

COLOMBO (News 1st); Protests were held opposite several hospitals in the country on Tuesday (19) citing serious concerns over the shortage of medicines, some of which are even considered live-saving.

The staff of the Lady Ridgeway Children's Hospital including Doctors staged a silent protest in front of the hospital this afternoon.

A specialist doctor at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children said as doctors, they have become helpless with the current situation.

Several children in hospitals need immediate treatment, but at present, because of the shortage of medicine, some children are suffering & helpless, said one doctor.

Doctors further said that the government has failed in solving the crisis situation in the country.

Meanwhile, at the Badulla General Hospital protests against the shortage of essentials took place.

The staff members & Doctors at Badulla General Hospital said there is a huge shortage at other Hospitals in the area as well.

Central Committee Member of the Government Medical Officers Association Dr. Palitha Rajapaksa told reporters that the country is facing a shortage of medicine and medical supplies.

Doctors were seen carrying empty coffins to highlight the crisis, as the shortage of essential medication could lead to the deaths of patients in the country.