MEMBERS FIRST’-Policy Statement – GMOA Election 2025-26

MEMBERS FIRST’
Policy Statement – GMOA Election 2025-26
Our Vision: ‘Members First’
We stand before you with a vision that puts you, our valued members, at the heart of everything we do.
In this election, we pledge to shift the focus back to the core of our organization- who serve the nation with commitment and resilience.
the doctors
Our theme, “Members First,” reflects our promise to advocate for, protect, and uplift every medical professional in Sri Lanka.
This policy is structured around three core expectations of our members:
Financial Stability Professional Dignity
Welfare

1. Unique Salary Scale for Doctors/Fixation of Extra Duty Allowance/Update on Transport Facilities
   We will tirelessly advocate for a distinct, dignified, and competitive salary scale that reflects the market value, responsibility, workload, and training of doctors. A profession that heals the nation must not be undervalued.
   We propose implementation of an exclusive salary structure in three strategic steps. We will advocate for the fixation of the Extra Duty Allowance as a Professional Allowance. We will propose updating the DAT allowance in line with inflation indicators. We will work with the Ministries of Health and Public Administration to phase doctors
   into the Official Transport Circular (22/99).
2. New Grade Promotion Scheme for Doctors
   We will liaise closely with the relevant ministries to move forward with the already-prepared proposal for a new promotion scheme.
   A joint Cabinet Memorandum for policy approval will be the next step.

3. Streamlining the Transfer Process
   We pledge to reform the current transfer system to ensure:
   Fairness
   → Transparency
   → Predictability
4. Building a Strong Rapport with the Ministry of Health
   We aim to restore mutual respect and collaboration through:
   Regular dialogue and joint committees
   GMOA representation in all relevant policy-making forums → Advocacy for health sector development in partnership, not conflict
5. Regaining the Public Image of the Profession
   Public trust is vital to our profession’s dignity and survival. We will:
   ❖ Launch a national campaign to restore public trust
   Promote ethical, patient-centered care
   Work to regain credibility and retain recognition through professionalism
6. Capacity Building through CPD
   We commit to expanding and diversifying Continuing Professional Development (CPD):
   Free or subsidized training modules
   → Collaboration with local academic institutions and overseas bodies for internationally
   recognized certification
7. Upgrading Hospital Accommodation
   A healthy doctor ensures healthier patients. We propose:
   Renovation and standardization of hospital quarters and on
   model-type plans
   Declaration and implementation of minimum standards for safety and dignity

8. ing Work Settings for a Conducive Working Environment We will ocate for:
   Minimum doctor-patient interaction time
   Declaration and regulation of minimum weekly working hours
9. Career Development Pathway via Middle Grade
   → Both work experience and postgraduate qualifications will be recognized in career advancement.
   10.Strengthening the Public Health System through
   Legislative Amendments
   Enhanced authority for Medical Officers of Health in areas such as food safety, alcohol and tobacco control, pharmaceutical quality, and the elimination of unqualified practitioners
   11.Expanding Postgraduate Opportunities
   We will push for expansion through PGIM and six already-approved state universities
10. Correction of Anomalies in SLQF
    We will address current disparities through the UGC with input from relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Health.
11. Ensuring a Safe Working Environment
    Special focus on protecting female colleagues
    ❖ Institutional mechanisms for physical and professional safety

14.One GMOA for All Doctors
All doctors feel equally represented, regardless of political belief, race, or religion
15.Ensuring Transparency at All Levels
Especially in financial management and decision-making processes
16.Say No to Political Agenda
Members are free to hold political beliefs, but we will not allow political affiliations to influence GMOA operations.
17.Legal Support for Members During Litigation
We will explore a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with organizations such as BASL
to assist members during legal challenges.
18.Strengthening Member Communication
Submit suggestions and feedback directly to the Executive Committee
Include an agenda item in general committee meetings to discuss innovative suggestions shared on social media
19.Re-establish the GMOA Welfare Arm
Reinstate the welfare arm arbitrarily abolished by the current Executive Committee Reintroduce the circuit bungalow network
Focus on member benefit, not profit, in all welfare initiatives
20.Say No to Irregular Expansion of Medical Education
We will uphold the principles outlined in the GMOA Concept Paper 2024 and ensure
quality, standards, and sustainability in the expansion process
Together, We Move Forward

Your vote is your voice. Put yourself first by putting ‘Members First’.
Let’s reclaim our pride, our purpose, and our place in society