The Treasury has agreed to release Rs.1,000 million with immediate effect to the Health and Indigenous Medical Services Ministry to buy essential drugs for the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital, Sri Lanka’s premier hospital, which treats cancer patients.
Healthcare services at the Apeksha Hospital, also known as the National Cancer Institute, have been hampered during the past six months because of the shortage of essential drugs.
On several instances, the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) had highlighted the severe shortage of some 25 drugs essential drugs such as Paclitaxel, Morphine, Dexamethasone and chemotherapy medication used in treating various types of cancers.
The Rs.1,000 million was released after a discussion held by Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and Ministry Secretary P.M.S. Charles with Treasury Secretary S.R. Atygalla.
The Health Ministry spokesman said the Ministry is expected to open tenders this week via the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC) to purchase drugs including those used in treating treat cancer patients and other ailments.
