Sri Lanka’s healthcare system faces several challenges. An aging population and a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, which account for nearly 75 per cent of deaths, place increasing strain on resources.
Sri Lanka is set to recognise the right to healthcare as a fundamental right in its new Constitution, according to Minister Nalinda Jayathissa. This historic move aims to empower citizens to seek legal remedies if their right to access healthcare is violated.
Jayathissa made the announcement at the annual social welfare event of the All-Island Kidney Patients’ Association, held at the Mahaweli Centre. The event was attended by prominent health officials of the island nation.
A Model for Regional Healthcare
Sri Lanka’s free and universal healthcare system has long been lauded as one of the best in the region. With an extensive network of public health facilities, the majority of citizens have access to healthcare within an average distance of 1.4 kilometers for basic clinics and 4.8 kilometers for government-sponsored facilities.
The country boasts high life expectancy and low maternal and infant mortality rates compared to its neighbours. Over the years, Sri Lanka has successfully eliminated major diseases like malaria, filariasis, polio, and neonatal tetanus, further solidifying its position as a regional healthcare leader.
The government plays a central role in delivering healthcare services, employing more than 90 per cent of the nation’s doctors and nurses and operating over 90 per cent of hospital beds. Public hospitals provide 95 per cent of inpatient care and half of all outpatient services, ensuring widespread access to medical care.
Challenges on the Horizon
Despite these achievements, Sri Lanka’s healthcare system faces several challenges. An aging population and a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, which account for nearly 75 per cent of deaths, place increasing strain on resources. Additionally, long waiting times for specialised care and advanced medical procedures in public hospitals have led to a growing reliance on private healthcare, which remains financially inaccessible for many.
Government spending on healthcare currently stands at 4 per cent of the national budget. While the public sector remains the backbone of the healthcare system, the private sector’s role is expanding, albeit limited to those who can afford higher costs.
A Legacy of Universal Healthcare
Sri Lanka’s commitment to universal healthcare dates back to 1950, when the nation adopted its policy of free healthcare. This initiative was part of a broader effort to expand health services in the two decades leading to independence, driven by politicians seeking to garner public support. Today, the country is home to one of the world’s earliest known healthcare systems, which includes a rich tradition of indigenous medicine alongside modern medical practices.
Teaching hospitals in major cities such as Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Anuradhapura, and Jaffna serve as hubs for advanced treatment, staffed by experienced doctors and nurses. For emergencies, the accident services at general hospitals are highly recommended due to their specialised capabilities.
Access to Medical Services
The decision to recognise healthcare as a fundamental right marks a significant step in safeguarding universal access to medical services for all citizens. By embedding this right in the Constitution, Sri Lanka underscores its commitment to maintaining a healthcare system that not only delivers quality care but also ensures accountability.
As Sri Lanka prepares for this transformative policy change, stakeholders and policymakers will need to address existing challenges to strengthen the healthcare system further. With its long-standing tradition of universal healthcare and robust public sector services, the country is well-positioned to set a benchmark for inclusive and equitable healthcare in the region.
Simultaneously, the Sri Lanka cabinet has approved a proposal to sign an agreement pegged at 780 million Sri Lankan Rupees with India for healthcare in the island nation.
The announcement serves as a reminder of the importance of healthcare as a pillar of social welfare and human dignity. By enshrining this right, Sri Lanka is poised to reaffirm its legacy as a nation committed to the well-being of its people.
Image: ADB
