Sri Lanka: Government doctors threaten to strike August 22

Event

The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) announced on Monday, August 19, that government doctors will hold a limited 24-hour strike on Thursday, August 22. According to a statement released by the union, the strike will start at 08:00 (local time) if the government fails to address their concerns within the health sector, including a shortage of quality medicines, failing to set a standard for medical education, delaying the transfer and appointment of doctors for the northern and eastern regions, and dropping standards for doctors transferring to rural hospitals, among other issues.

According to the GMOA, if the strike is held, doctors will continue to provide emergency services at all state hospitals. Doctors will also continue working in other critical facilities, including maternity and children’s hospitals, the Apeksha Cancer Hospital, and at military hospitals. Disruptions to regular healthcare services, including longer wait times and canceled appointments, are possible nationwide if the work stoppage occurs.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to keep abreast of the situation, confirm medical appointments, and anticipate disruptions to available health services.