Do some hospitals charge money?

In a surprise revelation, Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena yesterday said he found some Government hospitals charging money from patients where a free health service is ensured to all citizens.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 123rd annual scientific sessions organized by the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) in Colombo, the Minister said patients don't go to these hospitals as they are charged by doctors. The Minister added that doctors themselves have told him that a minimal fee is charged from the patients for the service of the doctors who are maintained by the people of the country.

The Government invests billions of rupees annually healthcare and our people should get more benefits from it, Minister Sirisena said.

The Minister said SLMA is the premier doctors organisation in Sri Lanka. He said doctors professional responsibility and duties often call them to work long hours, and also at unsociable times. "The health system has contributed immensely towards the goal of achieving equity in health. Today we provide a free health care service that can be accessed and enjoyed by all citizens. All Sri Lankans can be proud that the efficient and effective healthcare system is about the best in this region, despite having relatively minimal resources," the Minister said.