GMOA urges Health Secretary to issue clear guidelines on outside prescriptions

Thursday, 26 June 2025 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Health Secretary

Dr. Anil Jasinghe

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has written to Health Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, raising concerns over the absence of clear guidelines on issuing prescriptions for out-of-stock drugs and consumables in State hospitals. In the letter dated on Monday (23), the GMOA highlighted that the recent spate of allegations against doctors in Government hospitals with regard to issuing outside prescriptions for drugs and consumables has caused serious concern among its members, both Specialists and Grade Medical Officers.

The GMOA noted that Specialists and Grade Medical Officers are compelled to issue prescriptions for medications and items not available within hospital stocks often under life-threatening circumstances to ensure proper patient care.

“However, in the current context, issuing outside prescriptions without clear instructions and guidelines has created a serious risk, with the possibility of inquiries and legal action against our members who do so in good faith for the benefit of the patients,” the GMOA pointed out. The Association has therefore requested the Health Secretary to urgently issue clear instructions and guidelines to safeguard doctors who prescribe outside medication under such conditions.

“Furthermore, we urge you to consider this as a priority and respond at your earliest. Your prompt and positive response will ensure smooth functioning of healthcare services in the island,” it reads.

Discover Kapruka, the leading online shopping platform in Sri Lanka, where you can conveniently send Gifts and Flowers to your loved ones for any event including Valentine ’s Day. Explore a wide range of popular Shopping Categories on Kapruka, including Toys, Groceries, Electronics, Birthday Cakes, Fruits, Chocolates, Flower Bouquets, Clothing, Watches, Lingerie, Gift Sets and Jewellery. Also if you’re interested in selling with Kapruka, Partner Central by Kapruka is the best solution to start with. Moreover, through Kapruka Global Shop, you can also enjoy the convenience of purchasing products from renowned platforms like Amazon and eBay and have them delivered to Sri Lanka.