Shortage of Essential Medicines Threatens Private Healthcare in Sri Lanka

A shortage of essential and life-saving medicines has been reported, putting patients seeking treatment at private hospitals and medical centers at risk. A consultant physician warned that several emergency medicines, including IV Adrenaline and IV Hydrocortisone, are currently unavailable in the private sector. The shortage affects medicines that private institutions are required to keep in stock.

The shortage was attributed partly to suppliers and manufacturers failing to maintain regular supplies. The physician also accused the National Medicines Regulatory Authority of failing to properly register suppliers bringing medicines into the country. This lack of availability makes it difficult for private medical institutions to maintain necessary stocks of emergency drugs.