Health Ministry sources reveal that former Health Secretary Dr. Palitha Maheepala failed to take prompt action against kidney surgeon Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne of Sri Jayawardenapura Hospital. This was despite an inquiry report detailing allegations that Dr. Seneviratne removed both kidneys of a woman and delayed the planned kidney transplant at the hospital.
A preliminary investigation by Sri Jayawardenapura Hospital found evidence of misconduct, prompting the Health Ministry to appoint a special team to conduct further inquiries. The team promised strict action against those responsible, but a Ministry spokesperson told Lankasara that no decisions have been made yet.
The hospital has submitted a full investigation report to the Health Ministry. According to the findings, the patient had to undergo 55 dialysis sessions over six months, costing nearly 600,000 rupees, because of the failure to transplant a kidney after her own were removed.
The investigation also uncovered allegations that Dr. Seneviratne has been exploiting patients for nearly a decade. He allegedly transferred patients to a private hospital in Thalawathugoda, where he conducts private practice, causing significant inconvenience and financial strain on them.
Reports suggest the current Health Minister was aware of this issue before assuming office. Further action is awaited to address these serious allegations.
