News Today: GMOA Warns of Island-wide Strike in 2025

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has announced an island-wide strike starting from March 5th, 2025, if the government does not reverse recent reductions in additional duty and holiday allowances for government doctors.

Addressing the media, GMOA Secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa expressed deep concern over the changes introduced in the 2025 budget, which have negatively impacted doctors’ earnings.

“The additional duty and holiday allowances for doctors must be restored. If this correction is not made by March 6th, the GMOA will take strict decisions from March 7th,” Dr. Sugathadasa stated.

Why Are Government Doctors Striking?

The GMOA argues that these reductions not only affect the financial well-being of doctors but also demoralize healthcare professionals, potentially impacting patient care. The association insists that doctors’ contributions, especially during emergency situations and public health crises, must be recognized and fairly compensated.

According to reports, discussions between the GMOA and the Ministry of Health have so far failed to yield a favorable outcome. The strike is expected to disrupt public hospitals nationwide, leading to delays in patient treatment, surgeries, and medical consultations.

What’s Next?

If the government does not restore the allowances by March 6th, the GMOA has warned of further trade union actions starting March 7th, 2025. As tensions rise, patients and the healthcare sector brace for significant disruptions, while the government faces mounting pressure to resolve the issue.

With healthcare services at risk of disruption, stakeholders urge urgent negotiations to prevent further strain on Sri Lanka’s public health system.