The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has raised concerns over the removal of specialist posts in several hospitals.

GMOA President Dr. Sanjeewa Thennakoon stated that political interference has affected transfers of medical officers.

He noted that around 2,100 specialist doctors are in service, compared to a requirement of 3,000.

He further stated that steps are being taken to close certain hospital units, including facilities in Ragama, Colombo National Hospital, Lady Ridgeway Hospital, and Vavuniya Hospital.

Dr. Thennakoon warned that these developments could lead to an increase in doctors leaving the country.