GMOA expresses dissatisfaction over 2027 doctors’ transfer list

11-Aug-2026

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The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has expressed dissatisfaction over issues surrounding the preparation of the transfer list for doctors for 2027, with GMOA Media Committee member Dr. Anbas Farook calling for the immediate implementation of a systematic transfer mechanism in accordance with the Establishments Code.

Dr. Anbas Farook made these remarks at a media briefing held in Colombo on August 9, 2026.

He further said:

“A fair transfer mechanism is essential to ensure the equitable delivery of free healthcare services across the country. Despite the shortage of doctors, the country’s healthcare system has been able to maintain internationally recognised standards because doctors continue to serve beyond their limits.

“However, under the transfer mechanism followed up to 2025, the Ministry of Health imposed a one-week deadline for applications, resulting in only 50 per cent of the transfers being carried out.

“As a result, many doctors were adversely affected, creating a situation where some were compelled to leave the service and migrate overseas. Now, while preparing the transfer list for 2027, the Ministry of Health has arbitrarily changed June 30, which has traditionally been recognised as the eligibility cut-off date for applications.

“Such arbitrary decisions have caused considerable inconvenience to doctors. We have discussed the matter with the Director General of Health Services and expressed our dissatisfaction.

“A transparent mechanism should be implemented through the transfer boards in accordance with the Establishments Code in order to ensure an equitable healthcare service for people across the country,” he said.