The extended malfunction of one of the linear accelerators at Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama, which primarily serves pediatric patients, has endangered hundreds of lives.
Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the linear accelerator, crucial for administering radiotherapy—a vital cancer treatment—has been non-operational since February.
Despite the severity of the situation, the Health Ministry has neglected to take remedial measures to address the issue, exacerbating concerns.
Apeksha Hospital currently houses five linear accelerators, each playing a pivotal role in delivering various treatments. However, the malfunctioning machine holds particular significance for pediatric patients due to its specialized features.
Furthermore, the breakdown has led to a backlog of over 500 patients awaiting treatment, placing many, especially children, in precarious circumstances where their lives hang in the balance.
Sources also noted that private hospitals charge exorbitant fees ranging from Rs 700,000 to Rs 17 Million for radiotherapy treatments, imposing an immense financial burden on affected families.
In response to inquiries from the Health Ministry, Director-General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena acknowledged the severity of the situation, admitting that patient lives are indeed at risk.
He reassured that efforts are underway to either repair or replace the malfunctioning machine.
Source – .dailymirror.lk
