Samagi Jana Balawegaya Parliamentarian Rohana Bandara says the prices of medicine have increased by a large margin, amidst the prevailing medicine shortage.
Speaking in Parliament today, MP Bandara said patients obtaining medicine over a long-term are facing difficulties.
He questioned if the Ministry of Health can formulate a process for low-income earners to purchase medicine at concessionary rates.
Responding to the MP, State Minister of Production, Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals Channa Jayasumana said the Ministry granted approval for the private sector to increase medicine prices considering the increase in the value of the dollar.
State Minister Jayasumana said however if any individual is selling medicine over the control price, the National Medicines Regulatory Authority is engaged in taking legal action against such individuals.
The State Minister said there is no procedure for the government to provide relief to the public through the private sector adding however there are procedures in place to provide free treatment through all state institutions.
