The Government has sought the assistance of several international organizations to address the shortage of medicines in Sri Lanka, the State Ministry of Pharmaceuticals Supply and Regulation said.
Secretary to the State Ministry Dr. Saman Ratnayake revealed that Sri Lanka is currently facing a shortage of several essential medical items, including 40 types of medicines.
Stating that hospitals in the country are supplied with 1,325 types of medicines, Ratnayake said that out of it 400 are essential medicines, and 10 are life-saving medicine.
Ratnayake said among the 40 types of medicines currently required, some are essential medicines that prevent blood clots in the heart.
He pointed out that the budget allocated for medicines is insufficient due to the increase in the rate of the US Dollar.
The Secretary to the State Ministry of Pharmaceuticals Supply and Regulation said a request has been put forward to increase the allocation for the purchase of medicines, and are awaiting a reply. (NewsWire)