Dr. Nihal Abeysinghe, General Secretary of the National People’s Force, said that the number of doctors who left the country due to instability is over 500.
He said that doctors are leaving the country because of the unfair and arbitrary tax system presented by the government and that 6% to 36% of the professionals have been charged in this tax system.
He also pointed out that medicines were not ordered for the period of 2022 and 2023 last year.
He also said:
“Doctors and other professionals are leaving the country because of the economic and political instability of the society. These doctors are doctors with advanced knowledge who are able to provide service to the country. So far, more than 500 doctors have left the country. Various technical personnel in the health sector are trying to leave the country. Doctors are preparing for various exams to apply to different fields in other countries.
We are pressuring the government to listen to the demands of these medical professionals. Taxes should be levied. But the unfair taxation and their leaving the country will make the country face an even more serious situation.
There was no salary increase in the recent past. Doctors have to come to the hospital on emergency calls more than in other professions. They had a transport allowance and disturbance allowance. These allowances have also been added as income to be taxed. Doctors and health workers are working with great frustration. This seriously affects the health service.
A problem has arisen as a result of medicine shortages and rising prices. Some price increases have exceeded 300%. Imports are minimal.
Meanwhile, it has been reported that many of the medications needed by cancer patients at the hospital are in short supply. This is known as the hospital of anticipation. These expectations have left patients who have visited the hospital disappointed.
Many hospitals lack medicines. At the same time, no investigations can be carried out. White blood cell testing is not available at Beruwala Hospital. Every day, about 15 samples are collected and sent to Kalutara or Darga city. That is the nature of the service that doctors can provide.”