Health Care Financing in Sri Lanka: Challenges and Alternatives

Abstract

Health is a crucial input into economic development and poverty reduction. The levels and distribution of health outcomes can be regarded as a key indicator of the inclusiveness of a country's economic growth; they also often serve as proxies for a government's concern for all its citizens. By and large, Sri Lanka's health sector has contributed to the country's economic development, recording progress in achieving health indicators and maintaining their status. The health status depicted by such indicators places Sri Lanka at a more advanced position than many of its developing country regional counterparts, and in par with developed countries. Sri Lanka's considerable health sector achievements are financed through a combination of general taxation and out-of-pocket payments by households.