During a recent session of the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (COPA Committee), the Acting Deputy Director General of Health Services, Dr. G. Wijesuriya, addressed concerns regarding a significant shortage of staff within the healthcare sector.

Dr. Wijesuriya highlighted that a total of 526 individuals, who had taken 5-year leave to work abroad, are currently overseas. He emphasized the importance of adhering to government circulars and institutional codes, ensuring that these individuals receive their granted leave.

Furthermore, Dr. Wijesuriya revealed that a challenging situation has emerged, with 197 people having left the service without prior notice, along with an additional 163 doctors who have resigned.

Efforts are now underway to recover funds from the 197 individuals who departed without notice. These staffing issues have had a direct impact on the daily operations of the health service, affecting various critical areas such as anesthesiology and emergency services. In some primary healthcare units, there is currently only one doctor available.

Dr. Wijesuriya also noted that 71 doctors have retired this year, adding to the growing challenges faced by the healthcare system in Sri Lanka. The shortage of medical personnel continues to be a pressing concern within the sector.