Secretary of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa, stated yesterday (15) that with signs emerging of a potential fuel and energy crisis triggered by global geopolitical developments, the Government must implement a sustainable programme to guarantee the country’s energy security. He emphasized that identifying priorities and introducing practical solutions is crucial in addressing the situation.
Dr. Sugathadasa noted that the current fuel shortage has created significant challenges for doctors who rely on personal transportation to report for duty. He pointed out that the fuel quota allocated under the recently introduced QR-based fuel distribution system, which came into effect yesterday, is insufficient for healthcare workers.
“The fuel crisis has placed doctors in a difficult position when it comes to securing transport to attend work. The fuel quota provided through the QR system is not adequate. The Government should take immediate steps to introduce practical solutions, including revising the fuel quota for all health workers, including doctors, to a reasonable level on a priority basis,” he said.
He further explained that specialist doctors, medical officers, and administrative doctors provide healthcare services across the country depending on service requirements. Many doctors travel long distances and must remain available for routine duties, on-call responsibilities, and emergency situations.
“Unlike several other categories in the State service, doctors are not provided with official vehicles or fuel allowances by the Government. Therefore, most doctors depend entirely on their personal vehicles to fulfil their duties,” Dr. Sugathadasa added.
The GMOA warned that unless urgent measures are taken to address transport and fuel-related challenges faced by healthcare workers, the continuity and efficiency of medical services across the country could be affected.
