The Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka has implemented a substantial increase in the extra duty (ED) allowance per hour for the post of Physicists, marking an increment of over 210%. While recognizing the merit of this adjustment, concerns have arisen regarding its potential implications and disparities within the medical profession.

The recent allowance hike for Physicists, while addressing certain needs and justifications, has unintentionally placed their ED rates above those of medical doctors, even leading to instances where consultants now receive a lower ED rate in comparison. This disparity in extra duty allowances has raised concerns among the medical community and the broader workforce.

Critics argue that implementing such a significant allowance increase for a specific group within the department, without parallel adjustments for others, may contribute to discontent within the healthcare sector. The potential consequences of this decision include exacerbating the prevailing climate of inequality and dissatisfaction among doctors and healthcare professionals.

Furthermore, there are concerns that these disparities could accelerate the trend of medical professionals seeking opportunities abroad due to a perceived lack of parity within the healthcare system.