Sri Lanka Approves Bill to Recognize Over 1,000 Foreign Medical Colleges
The Medical Amendment Bill, which enables the recognition of more than 1,000 foreign medical colleges, was unanimously approved by Parliament.
COLOMBO, August 8 - Parliament has unanimously passed the Medical Amendment Bill, which allows the Sri Lankan government to recognize over 1,000 foreign medical colleges. The new legislation will pave the way for Sri Lankan doctors who graduated from foreign institutions to practice medicine in Sri Lanka.
Health Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana emphasized that the Bill targets the recognition of the top 1,000 medical institutions globally. He pointed out that approximately 300 Sri Lankan doctors have qualified from foreign medical schools but are currently unable to practice in the country due to the lack of recognition for their alma maters.
With the passage of this Bill, these doctors will be eligible to work in Sri Lanka, alleviating the shortage of specialist medical professionals such as surgeons, pediatricians, and psychiatrists. Additionally, some Sri Lankan doctors who have migrated abroad have expressed interest in returning, motivated by improved conditions in Sri Lanka. The new law could facilitate their return and reintegration into the local healthcare system.