Sri Lanka, June 15 -- Deputy Health Minister Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni said yesterday that there is no shortage of commonly prescribed medicines in State-run hospitals, despite mounting concern over drug availability.

Responding to criticism from health trade unions including the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) and Opposition politicians over reported shortages, Dr. Wijemuni said supplies of essential medicines - such as those used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic conditions - remain "uninterrupted" in Government healthcare institutions.

"There is no shortage of regular medicines. The drugs most frequently prescribed to the public are available in hospitals," he said.

However, he acknowledged that the ...