The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) says there is a shortage of 180 essential medicines, including painkillers, antibiotics, and drugs used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease, at the central drug store.

GMOA media spokesperson Dr Chamil Wijesinghe explained that there are significant deficits not only in medicines but also in a range of medical and surgical equipment. According to the association’s data, over 50 of these medicines are also scarce within hospitals, with the situation deteriorating.

He further raised concern over the ongoing shortage of a critical cancer medication, which he said had forced limitations on patient treatment for several months.