The Association of Government Radiology Technology Officers has expressed concerns regarding three digital X-ray photo processing machines purchased by Uva Provincial Health Services Directorate Offices.
These machines, acquired at a cost of 69 lakhs and distributed to Wellawaya, Bibila, and Siambalanduwa base hospitals, are deemed unusable by the association.
Chanaka Dharmavikrama, the president of the association, emphasizes the difficulty in controlling patient infections while using these machines. Additionally, he points out the high maintenance costs associated with these machines, highlighting that if any part is damaged, the entire machine must be removed, causing inconvenience to patients during examinations.
The association claims that despite informing tender board officials during the tender process, their concerns were ignored, and the purchase proceeded. Notably, no radiological technician officer was consulted for the technical evaluation committee during the purchase.
Chairman Chanaka Dharmawickrama alleges that these purchases indicate ongoing corrupt practices within certain Ministry of Health officials, and no action has been taken against these transactions. The association calls for a review of the procurement process and proper involvement of technical experts to ensure the acquisition of functional and efficient medical equipment.
