Rs.30 billion in outstanding bills for medicine - Health Sec.

by Staff Writer 28-06-2023 | 8:44 AM

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Health said suppliers have to pay 30 billion rupees in outstanding bills for the supply of medicines.

The Ministry said as a result purchasing medicines from these companies has become a challenge.

When inquired by News 1st Secretary to the Ministry of Health Janaka Sri Chandraguptha said discussions were held with Finance Ministry officials in this regard.

The Health Secretary said they agreed to promptly release provisions for the payment of outstanding bills.

On a separate note, the Ministry of Health has recommended to extend the retirement age of specialist doctors to 63 years.

Health Secretary Janaka Sri Chandraguptha said the relevant recommendations will be directed to the Cabinet.

He said the Court of Appeal was informed about the decision on Tuesday (27).

The Health Secretary said he presented the facts in relation to a petition filed by a group of specialist doctors against their retirement at 60 years.