Medical and Civil Rights Professional Association of Doctors (MCPA) has issued a fervent appeal to the President, urging him to promptly initiate an investigation into the procurement of 1.2 million Peritana Dialysis Caps at a cost of 50 million rupees. This move comes in light of ample existing stock in the medical supply sector that would suffice until the following year.
The Chairman, Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, has underscored the gravity of the matter, categorizing it as a serious offense. He implores the President to take swift action as a considerable toll of human lives, nearly 10, has already been lost due to equipment imported without proper registration and quality validation.
Dr. Chamal brings attention to the suspension of these devices’ usage due to concerns over the presence of pathogens in the newly imported kidney leakage filter catheters. Tragically, 10 fatalities have already occurred in hospitals located in Anuradhapura and Kandy.
Despite these occurrences, Dr. Chamal laments the lack of updates on the progress of the investigations conducted.
The controversial renal leakage filter dialysis caps were procured as an emergency purchase under an Indian loan scheme last November. This transaction was facilitated through a company named St.Stone Medical Device. Approximately 1.2 million of these caps were initially requested, with around 500,000 being brought into Sri Lanka by November.
In addition to the investigation plea, the Association has requested the President to establish a dedicated committee to assess the administration and shortcomings within the health system. They also urge decisive action against ministry officials implicated in the deterioration of the health system and the surfacing allegations of corruption.
