Don't reverse retirement proposals - Medical Specialists

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Medical Specialists of the Ministry of Health have written to the President not to reverse the proposal on reducing the retirement age in the public sector to 60 years.

The Medical Specialists of the Ministry of Health feel that bringing down the retirement age of medical specialists to 60 years will not harm the health service or postgraduate medical education as claimed by the lobbying group that is against the move.

They said that though around 250 medical specialists are expected to retire, a fair number of specialists will be available to replace them.

This includes 200 specialists who recently returned after completing overseas training, 525 specialists due to arrive in the country within the next two years after completing their training overseas, and 300 trainees who have completed local postgraduate specialty training with eligibility to cover up duties as acting specialists.

They said that out of the 250 medical specialists who will retire, the majority are from sub-specialty fields where there are currently enough specialists available in the country.

They added that if any specialty is left with a shortage, there is a provision for recruitment on a contract basis. 

They further added that the younger generation with newer skills and knowledge can provide a better and more efficient service in terms of patient care and post-graduate training if an opportunity is given.