🚨 Shortage of Essential Cancer Drug Filgrastim Sparks Urgent Call in Parliament

• Supply Shortage Impact: ITAK MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam raised concerns over a critical shortage of the vital cancer drug Filgrastim at Maharagama Apeksha Hospital and state health facilities nationwide. • Financial Burden on Patients: Patients are reportedly forced to buy Filgrastim from private pharmacies at Rs. 17,000–23,000 per injection (and Neupogen at Rs. 20,000–30,000), creating severe financial distress for affected families. • Government Response: Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa acknowledged the gap and assured Parliament that immediate steps will address shortages within 1 week via a special medical team. • Procurement Delays: Regular procurement pathways could take up to 6 weeks, raising serious questions regarding uninterrupted interim availability. • Healthcare Sector Outlook: MP Rasamanickam urged the Health Ministry to implement continuous stock monitoring across provincial state hospitals to prevent recurring essential medicine supply crises.