The state sponsorship and funds allocated for the programme 'Good Intern Doctor' organized by the Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA), has been curtailed this year due to an act of sabotage, GMOA Secretary Dr. Haritha Aluthge said.
Addressing a press conference held in Colombo recently, he said that the former health minister (current president), Maithripala Sirisena offered both state sponsorship and funds for the programme, but now unfortunately, the Health Ministry has extended its fullest support to a group of persons who are trying their best to sabotage the programme.
According to Dr. Aluthge, the GMOA conducted this programme very successfully every year and even amidst any hazard, the GMOA will go ahead and conduct the programme successfully. The programme is aimed at improving the quality and standards of the health service.
The programme has three main sections. They are Native Language Training Programme, Skills Training Programme (re-training doctors with the assistance of the College of Anaesthetists and College of Physicians in order to function as a resident doctor) and Good Intern Workshop.
The Communication Skills Training Programme is one of the key topics discussed during the programme, he added.