Some thoughts on Karapitiya fiasco

It is imperative that the public realize the extreme pressures borne by Onco (cancer)-surgeons in their work environment. An Onco-surgeon cannot afford to have waiting lists for surgical intervention of cancer cases. The surgery he performs is often complex and it is imperative to have the established hierarchy in the operating theatre, where the instructions by the surgeon must be carried out without question. Or else a life is at stake.

From what I gather from Karapitiya colleagues, the surgeon concerned has a high turnover and good results and a very grateful public over several years. To have been ‘threatened’ with assault in the hospital premises by a mob consisting of members of the minor staff, whatever the antecedent events has shocked the entire surgical fraternity. If they had a grouse, they could have gone to the police. The unions mouthing glibly that they, in their trade union actions will not impinge on cancer units, are now seen to be false. Electronic media should be cautious about giving them exposure to mouth their unedited feelings.

Sri Lanka has one of the best health services in this part of the world. Of late many factors have shaken public confidence in the service. Appointment of nonmedical ministers, secretaries, unions being given the upper hand, irresponsible electronic media editing are, just to mention a few.

The professionals of this country carry a heavy workload. Unstinted, unheard and unsung they bear this burden silently with professional pride, as we all call this country our motherland. I dread to think of what will happen if the left wing parties and their irresponsible unions are elected in the forthcoming elections! Dr. Channa Ratnatunga A retired surgeon