President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday said that all citizens of the country should have access to free health service.
He added that all citizens irrespective of the provinces where they live are entitled to receive the benefits of free health service.
The President was speaking at the presentation of appointments to 51
dental surgeons and 78 pharmacists at the Temple Trees. Enrolment of
1,655 student nurses for training also took place on the occasion.
President Rajapaksa stressed the importance of having a healthier nation for the country's development. He also commended the immeasurable services by the health officials including the nurses. No one can undermine the services of health officials, he added.
The President added that people can obtain drugs from pharmacies more easier than hospitals and they are being exploited by the pharmacies.
He said that this system needs to be changed soon.
Defence and health sectors are being given pride of place by the Government. He was of the opinion that a country cannot be developed without a sound healthcare system.
President Rajapaksa added that a large number of nurses were appointed to hospitals islandwide by the Government to provide a better health service to the people.
The President added that patient caring is more important than curing them. He was of the view that curing can be learnt but caring of patients should come from the bottom of heart.
Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena said country's health sector will undergo revolutionary changes next year.
He added that the Prof Senaka Bibile's Drug Policy will be implemented from January on President Mahinda Rajapaksa's directive.
He said that Prof Senaka Bibile's Drug Policy would be implemented gradually.
Courtesy - Daily News - By Chaminda PERERA
