Ampara doctors' strike hits 50,000 patients

The full-scale doctors' strike across all hospitals in the Ampara District today (October 3) has caused severe disruption, affecting over 50,000 patients.

The action began at Dehiattakandiya Hospital on October 1, demanding the immediate cancellation of the irregular transfer of two doctors.

 The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) stated that the strike escalated to all peripheral and Maha Oya hospitals yesterday, and subsequently included the Ampara District Hospital today, after the Ministry of Health failed to deliver on a promise to appoint a four-member committee to resolve the issue.

GMOA Secretary, Dr Prabath Sugathadasa, warned that the protest could spread to other districts if proper procedures for medical transfers are not implemented. Doctors held a demonstration outside the Ampara Hospital today to voice their opposition to the Health Ministry's actions.