Sri Lanka's healthcare system is facing an unprecedented crisis as a significant portion of its medical workforce has left the country in search of better opportunities abroad. Over the past two years, nearly 10% of Sri Lanka's doctors have migrated, primarily due to economic reasons, leaving hospitals understaffed and patients underserved.
The exodus began in the wake of Sri Lanka's economic collapse, which saw inflation soar to a record 73% in late 2022. Doctors, faced with spiraling living costs and stagnant wages, found themselves unable to make ends meet. Dr. Lahiru Prabodha Gamage, a 35-year-old physician who left for the UK in January 2023, exemplifies this trend. Despite his love for his country, the economic pressures and professional frustrations became too much to bear.
The impact of this medical brain drain is being felt across the island nation. Rural hospitals have been hit particularly hard, with some forced to suspend services or close down entirely. The District General Hospital in Embilipitiya, for instance, had to suspend all emergency surgeries for several weeks after losing its anesthesiologists. Similarly, the pediatric ward at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital was forced to close temporarily when all three of its pediatricians migrated.
The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA), the largest trade union for government doctors in Sri Lanka, has raised alarm bells about the situation. They warn that nearly 100 rural hospitals are on the verge of closing down due to the shortage of doctors. This mass exodus is not just a matter of numbers; it represents a significant loss of experience and expertise that will take years to replace.
Financial considerations are at the forefront of this crisis. Many doctors report that their salaries in Sri Lanka were insufficient to cover basic living expenses, let alone repay loans or save for the future. The stark contrast in earning potential abroad is a major pull factor. For instance, Dr. Eranda Ranasinghe Arachchi, now working in Northern Ireland, noted that his monthly earnings increased from about $508 in Sri Lanka to $3,800 in the UK for a similar position.
However, money is not the only factor driving this exodus. Many doctors cite a lack of respect and recognition for their work, particularly in light of their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The struggle to obtain basic necessities like fuel during the economic crisis, despite their critical role in healthcare, left many feeling undervalued by society and the government.
To address this crisis, the GMOA has submitted recommendations to the government, including improving salaries, establishing a proper career development system, and providing incentives for doctors working in remote areas. However, stemming the tide of migration will require more than just financial solutions. It will necessitate a comprehensive approach that addresses both the economic and professional concerns of medical practitioners, as well as broader improvements in Sri Lanka's economic situation.
