The government has allocated Rs. 45 billion to resume and complete hospital construction projects that were suspended midway, with the projects expected to be completed within the next two years, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

Speaking at an event held today (16) to open more than Rs. 134 million worth of renovated facilities at the Kalutara Nagoda Teaching Hospital, the Health Minister said steps were already being taken to restart the stalled projects.

He said the government is prioritising the efficient use of public funds while identifying key requirements in the health sector.

The Minister also said steps are being taken to strengthen hospital services by providing essential modern medical equipment.

As part of this programme, 16 state-of-the-art cardiac catheterisation laboratories (Cath Labs) are to be provided to major hospitals at a cost of Rs. 3.15 billion.

The government is also working to provide hospitals with modern CT and MRI scanners, while preparations are underway to identify the medical equipment required for the health sector next year, according to Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa.

Meanwhile, renovated units and infrastructure at the Kalutara Nagoda Teaching Hospital, completed at a cost of more than Rs. 134 million, were officially opened today.

The upgrades included the Outpatient Department, main pharmacy, clinics, ward corridors, Wards 21 and 22, the Health Education and Public Health Services building and the psychiatric ward.

The doctors’ quarters, nurses’ rest room and junior staff rest room were also renovated, while a newly constructed minor services control office was opened as part of the development programme, the Health Ministry said in a statement.