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| Tuesday, 6 January 2004 |
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GMOA wants complete overhaul by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) has called to amend several areas in the proposed National Health Policy. However, it has agreed to work together to move necessary amendments for the early implementation of the National Health Policy. A GMOA sub-committee will work closely with Health Ministry officials to have this plan which cost Rs. 300 million for preparation yield results. "We have to change many areas in this proposed policy and they need a complete overhaul," GMOA sources told the Daily News. A GMOA spokesman said even though the policy was prepared at a huge cost, it had not explained certain issues at all - such as the use of pharmaceutical items. "The GMOA is now providing their service free of charge," he added. This policy which was to be unveiled last month, drew criticism from many quarters with trade unions claiming that it had neglected important aspects in the country's free health service. "None of the pre-conditions for a successful health policy had been included in this proposed policy and they have completely failed in their endeavour," a health expert who wished not to be identified said. He said a total system involvement was necessary for preparation and implementation of a successful and productive national health policy. "Every stake holder from the Government, Opposition, trade unions and bureaucracy should be involved in such a process," he added. He noted that it was a pre-requisite to secure the commitment of the top management for preparation of such a policy. "There should be short-term benefits in the long-term agenda," he added. He lamented that this policy was made without adhering to basic norms of health policy making. "We have to look at various things in preparing an important policy of this nature which seeks to make radical changes," he noted. The GMOA's sub committee is led by consultant neurologist Dr. Sunil Perera and consultant Dr. Ranjani Gamage. It also comprise Dr. Kumar Weerasekera, Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama and Dr. J. T. Ariyaratne. "They are now discussing with Ministry officials to make amendments to the proposed policy. But, it will take a long time to finalise the process as many aspects have to be examined," he added. A Senior Ministry official said they were willing to discuss this draft proposals and arrive at a conclusion agreeable to all. The GMOA which said the draft plan had many shortcomings described it as a subtle move towards the privatisation of the country's free health system. "There are many areas that lead to suspicions," a GMOA spokesman said adding that the draft plan does not address the issue of improving hospital facilities and conditions and drug policy. "It has also given inaccurate statistics while focusing on the purchase of expensive machines for hospitals." "We expect the Health Ministry to accept our proposals," the spokesman said. |
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