Former Minister of Health Rajitha Senaratne says there are 27 medicinal drugs in short supply in the country at present.
Speaking during the Committee Stage Debate of the 2022 Budget in Parliament today, MP Senaratne said food is essential for the survival of human beings and then medicines are the most important aspect.
He said while prices of food items are increasing exponentially, the prices of medicines are also increasing at a rapid pace.
MP Rajitha Senaratne said medicine shortages have been reported from a number of hospitals across the country.
He said essential medicines are in short supply which will lead to people losing their lives.
MP Senaratne said there are shortages for anti-venom in hospitals and noted that those who come for treatment with snakebites will unfortunately not return home.
The former Health Minister claimed there are also drug shortages to treat patients with cardiovascular diseases, neuropathic issues, those suffering from insomnia and other sleeping disorders, medicine for cancer patients and anesthetics.
MP Rajitha Senaratne said while Rs.125.95 billion had been allocated to provide all essential medicinal drugs free of charge through hospitals this year only Rs. 65.375 billion had been allocated to provide drugs through hospitals for next year through the Budget.
He said therefore it is evident that the current government has not directed its attention towards the wellbeing of the public.
