Concerns Emerge Over Procurement of Outdated Cancer Treatment Equipment in Sri Lanka

In a troubling development for cancer treatment in Sri Lanka, it has been revealed that the Ministry of Health is considering the purchase of a 'Linear Accelerator' machine, which is based on outdated 2010 technology, instead of sourcing advanced equipment with modern capabilities. This decision could result in significant financial losses amounting to millions of dollars for the government treasury, leading to allegations of corruption being filed with the commission investigating graft and malfeasance.

The complaint urging immediate thorough investigations into the alleged irregular procurement process was lodged by Dr. Chamath Sanjeewa, the president of a medical professionals' association focused on healthcare and civil rights. He emphasized the need for accountability given the implications for cancer patients seeking timely and effective treatments.

Plans are underway to procure this equipment under a loan assistance proposal from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the years 2026/2027. The machines are intended for the Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama and the Karapitiya National Hospital in Galle. However, there are grave concerns that the supplier bidding for the contract is proposing to provide machinery that closely resembles outdated models from 2010, disregarding the modern facilities needed for patient care. Dr. Sanjeewa highlighted that acquiring such obsolete equipment at inflated prices constitutes a gross misuse of public funds.

Despite being informed about these purchases for an extended period, specialists in oncology have raised alarms regarding potential influences and vested interests from certain physicists employed in hospitals, who are allegedly pushing for the procurement of these outdated machines. This raises serious doubts about the selection process.

Furthermore, it has come to light that officials from relevant procurement and technical evaluation committees have recently participated in promotional activities, including lavish meals organized by the medical equipment company involved in the bidding. This has intensified calls for immediate and thorough investigations into the conduct of the committee members, the ADB representatives in Sri Lanka, and senior officials from the Ministry of Health.

For an extended period, the process to acquire essential Linear Accelerators for these hospitals has faced unnecessary delays, seemingly hampered by various officials and business interests. Dr. Sanjeewa has urged that this ongoing crisis, which endangers the lives of vulnerable cancer patients, must capture the direct attention of the President for prompt resolution.