Equipment failure leaves cancer patients in limbo at Apeksha Hospital

The Government Radiological Technologists' Association (GRTA) has raised alarm over disruptions to radiation therapy services at Apeksha Hospital in Maharagama, citing a non-functional CT Simulator machine as the cause. The equipment, which was installed as a replacement on September 7, has proven unable to deliver the diagnostic imaging services essential for treatment planning.

GRTA Chairman Chanaka Dharmawickrama highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that cancer patients dependent on radiation therapy are facing considerable hardship due to the breakdown. The inability to conduct CT simulations has created a bottleneck in the hospital's oncology workflow, preventing clinicians from accurately planning and executing radiation treatment protocols.

Apeksha Hospital, the nation's primary government facility specialising in cancer care, serves patients across the country requiring advanced radiological treatment. The equipment failure underscores the vulnerability of Sri Lanka's healthcare infrastructure, particularly for critical services where alternative capacity is limited. Officials have not disclosed timelines for repairs or restoration of full operational capacity.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges within Sri Lanka's public health sector regarding equipment maintenance and timely replacement of aging medical infrastructure. Stakeholders are calling for urgent intervention to restore services and prevent further deterioration in patient care standards at the institution.