GMOA Raises Alarm Over Salary Cuts Amid Health Budget Boost

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has voiced serious concerns over the salary revisions proposed in Budget 2025, despite acknowledging the government’s increased investment in Sri Lanka’s healthcare system.

Record Allocation for Health Sector

Budget 2025 has allocated a record-breaking Rs. 604 billion for the health sector and Rs. 185 billion for medical supplies. The government has also announced plans to digitize the drug procurement process and expand primary healthcare services, aiming to improve efficiency and accessibility. These measures have been welcomed by the GMOA as necessary steps to strengthen Sri Lanka’s free health service.

Doctors’ Allowances Slashed

Despite these positives, the GMOA has strongly criticized the reduction in extra duty allowances for doctors. The proposed salary revisions include an increase in basic salaries but come at the cost of a 50% reduction in the hourly rate of extra duty allowance and a cut in holiday allowances.

“This decision results in a financial loss for medical professionals who dedicate long hours to patient care,” the GMOA stated.

Impact on Healthcare and Brain Drain

Sri Lanka is already grappling with a shortage of medical professionals due to the ongoing brain drain. The Ministry of Health reported that over 1,500 doctors migrated in 2023, seeking better financial opportunities abroad. With the proposed salary cuts, the GMOA warns that more doctors could leave the country, further burdening an already strained healthcare system.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:1,000, but Sri Lanka is currently struggling with 1:1,500, and the situation could worsen if medical professionals continue to leave.

Call for Urgent Talks and Warning of Strike Action

The GMOA has requested an immediate discussion with the President and the Health Minister to address their concerns. It has also pointed out that the government has failed to introduce any measures to encourage doctors to remain in the country.

“If our concerns are not addressed, we will have no choice but to resort to trade union action, including strikes,” the GMOA warned.

As the government moves forward with its ambitious healthcare reforms, it now faces the challenge of balancing financial sustainability with retaining its critical workforce. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be reached to prevent disruptions in patient care.