Speaking at a media briefing in Kandy, the Deputy Minister said the initiative is being implemented under the instructions of the President to address long-standing delays in major surgeries at government hospitals.
He noted that there are lengthy waiting lists in the country for certain medical tests and surgical procedures, particularly heart, eye, and orthopedic surgeries. Some patients suffering from heart conditions have been forced to wait for extended periods for operations, and tragically, a number of them have died while on waiting lists.
To reduce these delays, the government plans to utilize underused operating theatres in state, semi-government, and private sector hospitals. The President’s Fund will also be used to provide payments to medical professionals, including doctors, who take part in performing these surgeries under the new program.
The initiative aims to expedite essential procedures and prevent avoidable deaths among patients awaiting life-saving treatment.
