Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella has announced a potential extension of the retirement age for doctors from 63 years to 65 years, allowing them to work on a contract basis for an additional two years. This proposal will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
The decision to consider this extension is driven by the significant challenges faced by the healthcare sector in Sri Lanka due to a substantial “brain drain,” where skilled medical professionals have been leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
While the retirement age for all government employees in Sri Lanka is typically 60 years, the unique circumstances in the healthcare sector have led to this potential change for doctors. Extending the retirement age of doctors by two years could help mitigate the shortage of experienced medical personnel, ensuring continuity and stability in healthcare services.
