GMOA Spokesman Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe said the association had been compelled to proceed with TU measures as the situation had already begun to harm patients. While a full-scale strike has not yet been declared, he warned that stronger action may follow if authorities fail to respond meaningfully.
“We have already declared several trade union actions starting from Monday. A strike is always the last resort because we consider the stability of the health system. But if the Government pushes us toward it, tougher measures may be necessary,” Dr. Wijesinghe said.
Among the planned actions are refraining from prescribing or dispensing medicines that are currently out of stock, withdrawing from political health camps and clinics, and refusing deployment to newly opened hospital units or wards that lack the necessary staffing levels.
Dr. Wijesinghe stressed that the crisis was already placing patients at risk. “Due to the severe shortage of equipment and human resources, healthcare services are being significantly compromised. Patients are the ones suffering. Our demands are aimed at restoring and safeguarding the free healthcare system—not merely resolving salary issues,” he added.
The GMOA is calling on the Government to ensure a steady supply of quality medicines, increase the number of doctors in the service, and introduce a long-term strategy to retain medical professionals within the country.
