Sri Lanka, May 21 -- The Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) has raised serious concerns over an escalating shortage of essential medicines in hospitals across the country.

Speaking to the media, GMOA spokesperson Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe stated that there is a critical lack of antibiotics, painkillers, and insulin, among other vital medications.

"By the end of April, the Medical Supplies Division had run out of nearly 180 types of medicines, and around 50 more were unavailable in the hospital system. This includes crucial drugs for heart disease, hypertension, and even surgical equipment. The problem is widespread, affecting both the national and regional healthcare systems," he said.

The shortage has prompted growing alarm a...