By Rathindra Kuruwita

The Court of Appeal is to announce, on 17 November, its verdict on the early retirement of medical specialists. Specialist doctors said on Monday (13) that 176 of them have submitted Writ Petitions opposing the Cabinet’s decision to enforce the retirement of medical specialists at the age of 60. It was pointed out that the Health Ministry had previously extended the service age of medical specialists in the State to 63 years.

However, a circular from the Health Secretary stated that the decision on the retirement age of medical specialists would only be effective until December 31, 2024.

According to insiders, there is a justifiable expectation among medical specialists for an extension of their service due to factors such as the ongoing brain drain causing a decline in medical practitioners.

The shortage of medical specialists is a significant concern for ensuring equal service provision across all State hospitals. Various issues, including the economic crisis, taxation, delays in placement upon their return, challenges with children’s schooling, and the less-than-ideal treatment of medical specialists upon their return from abroad, have led many to opt for overseas service.

Doctors claim that there are currently 790 vacancies for specialist doctors. There are only 1,985 specialists actively serving in government hospitals.

“Previously the shortage was about 450 doctors. Estimates show that about 3,000 medical specialists are needed by 2024 to ensure satisfactory service in state hospitals. If the proposed retirement age rule is implemented, 305 specialists, including 70 who will turn 63, will be compelled to retire, further reducing the number of medical specialists in service,” a doctor said.