GMOA Launches Trade Union Action Over Budget Concerns

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Government Medical Officers’ Association says it will launch a trade union action from 8 a.m. today.

GMOA Media Spokesperson Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe said the decision was taken in protest against what he described as the government’s neglect of the health service and medical professionals through the 2026 Budget.

He stated that, with this trade union action, hospitals will no longer issue prescriptions for patients to obtain essential medicines and equipment from external pharmacies when such items are unavailable in hospitals.

Dr. Wijesinghe added that recommendations for laboratory tests unavailable in hospitals will also be withheld.

He further noted that, under this trade union action, political leaders, religious leaders, civil organizations, and the public will be informed about the Budget’s failure to address critical issues within the health sector.

Additionally, the GMOA has decided that its members will refrain from voluntarily participating in health camps and clinics organized by political groups from today onwards.

The association has also decided to halt the deployment of doctors to newly opened hospital wards and units that lack adequate medical staffing.

Dr. Wijesinghe said a special discussion between the President and the GMOA’s Executive Committee is scheduled to take place this morning.