By unusuma.lk on (LK time)
In a bold step toward ensuring the safety and quality of medicines, the Secretary to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Anil Jasinghe, has revealed plans to establish dedicated laboratories for testing pharmaceuticals. This move comes amidst rising concerns over the quality of imported medicines and a recent blacklisting of a pharmaceutical company involved in questionable practices.
Speaking to journalists in Kandy, Dr. Jasinghe explained that while testing of medicines had previously been carried out only when complaints were raised, this reactive approach was not enough to guarantee public safety. He emphasized that, “These tests should be conducted at various stages of quality checking,” adding that the government is now prioritizing the creation of one or two laboratories in Sri Lanka to improve the system.
Highlighting the significance of the plan, Dr. Jasinghe pointed out that although Sri Lanka is a relatively small nation, its healthcare procurement process is much larger than that of many developed countries. The reason, he noted, lies in the country’s state-run healthcare system, where the centralized supply of medicines makes rigorous testing even more essential.
