The Ministry of Health has confirmed an ongoing shortage of anesthesiologists and pediatricians, exacerbating healthcare challenges nationwide.
Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Secretary to the Ministry of Health, highlighted the migration of specialists and their pursuit of overseas training as key factors contributing to the deficit. While some doctors are returning from abroad, hospitals, notably in Hambantota and Embilipitiya, have faced patient inconvenience due to the scarcity of specialist care.
Despite the exodus of nurses seeking opportunities overseas, hospital services remain operational thanks to ongoing recruitment efforts.