Sri Lanka, Sept. 16 -- Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa today clarified remarks by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake that drew criticism from the Opposition, saying the President was referring to reducing unnecessary visits to tertiary hospitals for primary healthcare needs.

The Minister said congestion at outpatient departments (OPDs) and clinics at National and Base Hospitals had reached unbearable levels, with people seeking treatment for conditions that could be managed at primary healthcare facilities.

He said the Government was taking steps to strengthen the country's primary healthcare system, adding that strengthening primary care was also the approach followed in many countries.

Referring to India, Dr. Jayatissa said th...