President Ranil Wickremesinghe alarms and concerns that approximately 30 to 40 out of every 100 doctors or nurses trained in the country opt to leave, a circumstance deemed unfavourable for the nation.
The President stressed that it is incumbent upon all individuals to enhance healthcare services within the nation, which boasts some of the world’s highest standards in medical care, and to actively contribute to the country’s economic prosperity.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks during his attendance at the inauguration ceremony of the accident and emergency care unit of Point Pedro Base Hospital. This facility was constructed as part of the Government of the Netherlands’ Development Related Infrastructure Investment Vehicle (DRIVE), relief loan scheme and officially vested in the public yesterday (22).
The DRIVE a subsidy programme established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands to support public infrastructure projects in developing countries which contribute to the country’s advancement.
The President stated that he has instructed Sir John Kotalawana Defence University to augment its recruitment efforts to fulfil the requirements in the medical and nursing fields. Additionally, he underscored the importance of enhancing facilities to support the training programs in these areas.
Meanwhile, the President noted that for the Faculty of Medicine, National School of Business Management (NSBM) Green University has been granted authorization to operate a teaching hospital, while Lyceum Campus has expressed interest in this endeavour as well.
Furthermore, the President emphasized the importance of integrating modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), into the healthcare sector of the country to ensure the upkeep of contemporary medical systems.The President expressed gratitude to the Government of the Netherlands for extending this facility to the communities of Jaffna and Point Pedro.
A sum of LKR 04 billion has been allocated through the Government of the Netherlands’ DRIVE Concessional Loan Scheme for the enhancement of Point Pedro Base Hospital’s infrastructure including Accident & Emergency unit (A&E), Preliminary Care Unit (PCU), Radiology Development (X-Ray, Ultrasound Scanner and CT Scanner), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Operation Theatres, Neonatal ICU, Premature Baby Care Unit (PBCU), Surgical Ward, Maternity Ward, Central Sterile Supply Division (CSSD)Dialysis Unit and Laboratory. This funding has facilitated the advancement of modern healthcare facilities within the hospital premises.
Following the unveiling of the memorial plaque and the inauguration of the emergency unit, the President embarked on an inspection tour and engaged in amicable discussions with the hospital personnel. Moreover, the President extended tokens of appreciation to Sri Lanka’s Dutch Ambassador Bonnie Horbach and Managing Director of VAMED Paul de Bruin.
Additionally, a commemorative gift was bestowed upon President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Addressing the gathering, State Minister for Health Sitha Arambepola highlighted the significance of the development initiatives at Point Pedro Base Hospital, considering it a notable milestone in advancing healthcare services within the Northern Province. She expressed gratitude to the Government of the Netherlands and the Netherlands Embassy in Sri Lanka for their invaluable support and financial assistance extended under the DRIVE project.
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