Healthcare

February 29, 2024

The Court of Appeal issued an interim order on February 28, 2024, preventing HNB from taking parate action against New Nawaloka Medical Center (Pvt.) Ltd, a subsidiary of Nawaloka Hospitals PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading healthcare providers. In light of this development, Nawaloka Hospitals would like to reassure all stakeholders that the organization possesses the necessary financial resources and capability to fulfill its loan obligations without compromising its operations or commitments.

It has come to the company’s attention that certain parties have been circulating rumors regarding its financial ability. Nawaloka Hospitals categorically states that these rumors are baseless and do not reflect the reality of our organization’s financial stability. As a prominent player in the healthcare sector of Sri Lanka, our commitment to serving the nation remains as strong as ever.

Nawaloka Hospitals has been at the forefront of delivering exceptional healthcare services to the people of Sri Lanka for 39 years. The company’s unwavering dedication to providing world-class medical facilities and innovative treatments has earned it the trust and confidence of it’s patients, partners, and stakeholders.

Nawaloka Hospitals understands that rumors and speculation can easily undermine public perception. However, the company assures all stakeholders that Nawaloka Hospitals PLC has always prioritized financial prudence and strategic planning. The company boasts a proven track record of successfully managing its financial obligations and maintaining a strong financial position. Its financial capabilities remain solid, enabling it to continue serving the healthcare needs of the nation.

Nawaloka Hospitals would like to extend its gratitude to it’s valued patients, partners, and stakeholders for their continued support and trust in the company. Rest assured, the company is resolute in upholding its commitments and responsibilities, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of quality healthcare services to our community.

February 28, 2024

Hemas Labs is poised to make a significant impact on healthcare accessibility in the Southern Province with the opening of its state-of-the-art laboratory in Galle. Building on its rich history of providing quality healthcare services in the region between 2011 and 2017, as Southern Hospitals, Hemas Labs unveiled its Galle Lab on the 22 February 2024. This will be soon followed by other locations in Matara, Tangalle, Ambalangoda and other areas in the Southern Province.

Strategically located on Wakwella Road in the heart of Galle, Hemas Labs aims to be a centre for health services in the Galle area. Hemas Labs – Galle will provide a fully-fledged testing and analytics facility, to cater to the region’s demand for high quality medical analytics and investigations. The facility will be able to carry out over 3,500 tests, with Hemas Labs looking to emerge as the preferred choice in the Southern Province.

Designed for easy access and convenience, Hemas Labs – Galle offers ample parking facilities for a hassle-free experience. Patients will also enjoy the unparalleled convenience of Hemas Hospitals’ Mobile Sample Collection facility, allowing for samples to be collected from the comfort of home. This service is especially valuable for patients who face mobility challenges. All patients of Hemas Labs can also enjoy the seamless convenience of the online Hemas Lab Portal, which provides patients with seamless access to their reports, trend analyses of investigations, and a comprehensive history of all tests conducted.

Hemas Labs – Galle will also help Hemas Hospitals to build stronger relationships with consultants, general practitioners and corporate customers in the region. In line with Hemas Hospitals’ commitment to holistic healthcare, Hemas Labs – Galle will also introduce wellness programmes, including health checks and corporate health screenings. These initiatives reflect Hemas Hospitals’ dedication to proactive health management.

Hemas Labs prides itself on its knowledgeable and competent staff, delivering excellent customer service and patient-centric care. Fully integrated with the latest technologies, Hemas Labs – Galle ensures precision, high-quality testing, and cutting-edge facilities for the Southern Province. Visit the new facility at, Wakwella Road, Galle – or call 0114959825 for more information or to request mobile sample collection.

February 26, 2024

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women in Sri Lanka, accounting for an estimated 1,407 diagnoses and 780 deaths each year.¹ Without intervention, projections forecast a potential death toll of 58,754 by 2070 and 115,137 by 2120.²

Addressing this urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer , a panel discussion was convened comprising experts such as Dr. Chithramalee de Silva, Director of Maternal and Child Health and Consultant Community Physician; Dr. Ramani Punchihewa, Consultant Histopathologist at the National Hospital for Respiratory Disease; Dr. J Padmaka Silva, Consultant Community Physician and National Program Manager for the Well Woman Program; and Nirmali Samaratunga, Chairperson, Rotary Cervical Cancer Elimination project.

Moderated by Dr. Sandeep Sewlikar, Head of Medical, Scientific, and Regulatory Affairs at Roche Diagnostics India & Neighbouring Markets, the discussion highlighted the steps taken by Government of Sri Lanka towards the elimination of the cervical cancer, programs undertaken like Well Women Clinic, pilot project in Kalutara district to analyse different methods of cervical cancer screening among ever-married women in 35-year and 45-year cohorts, and steps taken by the Family Health Bureau to align cervical cancer elimination targets with that of World Health Organisation’s (WHO) goals.

Key highlights of the Kalutara project:

A comparative analysis assessed the effectiveness of various screening methodologies such as Pap smear, LBC and HPV DNA to determine the most effective screening method for detecting indications of cervical cancer among married women aged 35 to 45.³
The findings showcased that the Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) detection rate by colposcopy was higher with HPV DNA screening than other methods.³

The panellists also discussed the WHO recommendation of using HPV-DNA based detection as the primary screening method, starting at the age of 30 years, with regular testing every 5–10 years.³ A thorough examination of the current cervical cancer screening landscape in Sri Lanka was presented, along with detailed plans for expanding screening programs to reach a broader demographic. Furthermore, Nirmali Samaratunga illuminated the crucial role played by organisations such as the Rotary Club of Colombo in raising awareness and facilitating access to cervical cancer screening programs across the country.

Dr. Chithramalee said, “Proactive initiatives like policy advocacy, health system strengthening, increasing coverage & equity, quality of care, and raising community awareness on screening are being undertaken by the Well Women Program, Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka. Based on the evidence that has been generated worldwide on the effectiveness of different screening methods used by many countries for cervical cancer screening, HPV DNA testing has been identified as the most effective. Hence, the government of Sri Lanka has taken a decision to introduce HPV DNA based screening in phase wise manner.

Dr. Padmaka Silva added, “Through vaccination, early screening, and education, we aim to make significant strides towards eliminating cervical cancer. To screen 70% of women with high precision tests we have introduced HPV DNA as the primary screening test for cervical cancer from 2020 onwards. With our extensive network of 1000 Well women clinics in 354 public health units in nine provinces in the country, we have made significant strides for cervical cancer screening and hope to expand the screening program in a phased manner with HPV DNA in all districts in the country by 2030.”

Dr. Sandeep Sewlikar outlining the crucial need for a multipronged strategy to tackle cervical cancer in Sri Lanka, expressed gratitude to the team involved in executing the project, while also recognising their commitment and hard work as pivotal in advancing the fight against cervical cancer in the country. “We are inspired by Sri Lanka’s efforts and are delighted to support the Family Health Bureau, and Ministry of Health, as a diagnostics provider. With the WHO prequalification for our cobas HPV test, we are confident that together we can help countries overcome this preventable cancer through timely screening.”

February 17, 2024

We proudly announce that MyFootBalance® 3D foot scanning technology has been shortlisted in the Sports Medical category in the Sports Technology Awards 2024.

MyFootBalance®, FootBalance’s patented 3D Foot Scanning Service, combines advanced 3D scanning with biomechanical foot analysis and personalised footwear and gear recommendations, making it the most comprehensive 3D foot scanning technology in the market.

The Sports Technology Awards celebrate and recognize outstanding achievements in the ever-evolving field of sports technology, honouring innovation and excellence across various sectors. It’s like The Oscars of Sports Technology.

Judging The Awards were leading technologists, business visionaries, and champion athletes. Renowned figures such as Sir Steve Redgrave, Nasser Hussein, Stef Reid and Adam Lallana, along with representatives from Magic Johnson Enterprises, FIFA, PGA European Tour, ATP, and TikTok, have scrutinized the submissions, ensuring that only the most innovative and impactful technologies make it to the shortlist.

”We are delighted and tremendously honoured to be one of the finalists in the Sport Technology Awards 2024. For the past 20 years, we’ve been the forerunners of innovation, pushing the boundaries of technology to revolutionise the sports and medical industry.” said Erkki Hakkala, FootBalance’s founder.

Our unique concept integrates advanced health technology, customised products, and personalised experiences. However, we have a greater purpose beyond technology and products: our holistic approach to health and wellbeing aims to enhance quality of life, ensuring better lives and maintaining active, fit, and pain-free lifestyles.” Hakkala added.

The winners of The Awards will be revealed at a new-look ceremony scheduled for Thursday, May 9th at The Londoner, in the heart of the city’s West End. The event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of innovation, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from around the world to honour excellence in sports technology.

FootBalance’s story

FootBalance is a Nordic, holistic health driven brand. Proud of its medical origins and guided by evidence and science, the company custom creates a personalised fit through its advanced 3D foot scanning technology and supporting product portfolio, including its award-winning custom orthotics.

With its holistic approach to foot health & wellbeing, FootBalance strives to improve quality of life, making lives better and keeping us active, fit and pain-free. Today, FootBalance is present in more than 50 countries across 1,500 points of distribution, having conducted more than 5 million foot analyses and sold over 4 million custom orthotics worldwide.

Since 2019, FootBalance Sri Lanka has served thousands of clients in a short period, including elite sports personalities from Sri Lanka Cricket, Basketball, Netball, Volleyball, and Athletics. Our custom moulded insoles have been recommended by healthcare professionals, including podiatrists and orthopedic specialists, as part of the initial treatment plan for many foot related pains and injuries.

February 6, 2024

WhatsApp-Image-2024-01-31-at-17.41.23-LBN.jpeg

Ninewells Hospital, Sri Lanka’s leader in woman and childcare has proudly achieved the Gold Standard Certification from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka (GBCSL), becoming the first private hospital in Sri Lanka to receive the prestigious recognition. This certification underscores Ninewells’ position as the leader of sustainability in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector, setting new benchmark for private healthcare providers across the Island.

Commenting on this milestone, Dr Vibash Wijeratne, Director & Chief Operations Officer of Ninewells Hospital said “Achieving the Gold Standard of the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence across all facets of healthcare operation. As the first private hospital in Sri Lanka to receive this prestigious recognition, Ninewells Hospital is setting a new benchmark for environmentally-conscious healthcare providers in the region. We believe that sustainability is integral to exceptional healthcare, and this achievement aligns with our promise to maintain international standards while providing patients with unparalleled healthcare services in a warm, welcoming, and environmentally responsible environment.”

Mr. Anushka De Mel, the Resident Engineer & Facility Manager at Ninewells added “Embracing sustainability is a responsibility we owe to our community and the environment, unlocking the potential for great strides toward environmental responsibility, from solar energy initiatives to waste reduction. Thus, the Gold Standard Certification from the GBCSL reaffirms our dedication to pioneering sustainable healthcare practices in Sri Lanka, from the ground up.”

Established as a pioneering force in women and child healthcare services, Ninewells Hospital has successfully evolved over its storied 20-year journey. Located strategically in Narahenpita, the Hospital stands amid a highly urbanized area, surrounded by other prominent private hospitals. Ninewells’ commitment to responsible healthcare extends beyond medical excellence, embracing environmentally friendly practices across its operations. Driven by a focus on patient wellbeing, eco-preservation, and energy efficiency, Ninewells has undertaken substantial measures to reduce its carbon footprint and adverse effects on the environment.

Notably, a net-metered solar electricity system generating approximately 10,400 kWh of energy each month has been installed onsite, complemented by a solar-heated hot water system. In addition to this, mechanically ventilated spaces, CFC-free HVAC systems, water-efficient fixtures of renowned brands, and a dedication to waste reduction further underscore Ninewells’ commitment to sustainability. The Hospital premises is also designed with tranquillity in mind, featuring lush greenery and other environmental elements that help preserve the natural surroundings. Furthermore, Ninewells has also demonstrated a sincere dedication to reducing the volume of waste that reaches landfills and conducts many ongoing initiatives to encourage recycling, responsible disposal practices, and minimizing the use of plastics.

Accordingly, in recognition of its eco-friendly initiatives, Ninewells Hospital now proudly holds the Gold Standard certification from the GBCSL.

The GBCSL is a consensus-based not-for-profit organization, committed to developing a sustainable property industry in Sri Lanka by encouraging the adoption of green building practices. It is the only representative member in Sri Lanka of the World Green Building Council, which represents a large number of countries ranging from developed to developing nations.

February 5, 2024

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2024 – Zuellig Pharma, a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of two brands, Cialis® (Tadalafil) and Alimta® (Pemetrexed), from Eli Lilly and Company (“Lilly”) for select ASEAN markets, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines and Thailand, via its wholly-owned subsidiary, Zanovex Pte. Ltd. (“Zanovex”). Zanovex will own the trademarks and marketing authorisations, and license manufacturing know-how for Alimta®, an established chemotherapy drug for the treatment of a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma, and Cialis®, a leading men’s health product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

ZP Therapeutics, the commercial division of Zuellig Pharma, will promote the two brands in the relevant markets. Prior to the acquisition, ZP Therapeutics was responsible for the promotion and distribution of the brands as part of a broader, long-term strategic partnership with Lilly in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand.

“This acquisition marks a major milestone in the evolution of Zuellig Pharma to becoming an integrated healthcare solutions company. It demonstrates the increasing strength of ZP Therapeutics, which has extensive in-market expertise and capabilities in driving growth of healthcare products in Asia. We look forward to further expanding our commercial presence in the region through meaningful strategic partnerships with the world’s leading biopharma companies as we remain focused on our purpose of making healthcare more accessible to communities in Asia,” said John Graham, Group CEO, Zuellig Pharma.

About Zuellig Pharma
Zuellig Pharma is a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, and our mission is to make healthcare more accessible to the communities we serve. We provide world-class distribution, digital and commercial services to support the growing healthcare needs in this region. The company was started a hundred years ago and has grown to become a multibillion-dollar business covering 16 markets with over 12,000 employees. Our people serve more than 200,000 medical facilities and work with over 450 clients, including the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world.

ZP Therapeutics, a division of Zuellig Pharma, is the commercialisation partner of choice for the healthcare industry with offices in 13 countries across Asia and over 2,500 associates. A catalyst in improving patient journeys and healthcare outcomes through commercial excellence, robust in-market capabilities and strong ethical principles, ZP Therapeutics is a trusted partner for expanding patient access and providing innovations to the healthcare community.

For more information, visit: https://www.zuelligpharma.com/

February 2, 2024

Sri Lanka’s most-loved healthcare brand, Hemas Hospitals, known for going above and beyond for its patients and the community, recently supported a gifted young autist with treatment for a rare medical condition. A Grade-4 student at R/BC Tamil Maha Vidyalaya faced the challenges of being autistic and having a rare ankle deformity. This condition necessitated surgical intervention, specifically an osteotomy, to realign the affected bones. Resident orthopedic surgeon performed the surgery for the young individual, who is also a gifted savant, having achieved remarkable feats such as winning an award for Best Memory from the Cholan Book of World Records in India.

However, with the procedure costing upwards of LKR 500,000/- Muralitharam’s family was struggling to gather the necessary funds as a result of their economically disadvantaged rural background. Understanding their struggle and seeing the potential in young Muralitharam, Hemas Hospitals made the decision to provide the necessary treatment free of charge.

The procedure was carried out successfully, with the gifted young savant expected to make a full recovery, regaining the critical mobility he was lacking as a result of his condition. Hemas Hospitals takes this opportunity to wish young Pakiyaraj Muralitharam the very best of luck in his future endeavours, and expects that he will shine against the odds and bring pride to his parents and country.

February 2, 2024

New Mawanella Medical Centre, which is at the forefront of providing health and wellness services, was honoured as the Best Health and Wellness Service of the Year (Western Medicine) at the Pinnacle Sri Lanka 2023 Awards organised by MUGP International Organisation. The award ceremony was recently held at the Galleface Hotel in Colombo. The Medical Centre’s Founder, Dr. Kamal Dharmawansha has also received the Pride of the Nation Award from the FirstLight organisation. Founded by Dr. Dharmawansha, New Mawanella Medical Centre has been providing western medicine-based treatment and related services for many years. The Medical Centre is located at No. 61, Rambukkana Road, Mawanella. Apart from the outpatient department (OPD), it also runs clinics for patients suffering from non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma. The Medical Centre also performs minor surgeries and provides necessary treatment for diabetic wounds, cuts, and long-term non-healing wounds.

In addition to providing medical treatment, New Mawanella Medical Centre provides a range of related services such as nebulisation, counseling services on prevention of NCDs, home-based medical services and issuance of medical certificates. Over the past, it has gained fame not only in the Mawanella area but also in other parts of the country. All treatment and services are provided by a staff with proper training and experience in the field of health care. The Medical Centre, which also received a Pinnacle Sri Lanka award in 2022, also engages in a number of social services, and the free medical clinics conducted in different areas are the main among them. “If not for the unwavering support of our community and the dedication of our dedicated team, we would not have been able to make this achievement possible. The consistent trust placed on us by our customers and this achievement inspires us to continue to strive for excellence in delivering healthcare services.” said Dr. Dharmawansha.

February 1, 2024

In a significant initiative commemorating World Leprosy Day 2024, Hemas Pharmaceuticals, the Anti Leprosy Campaign, Provincial Director of Health Western Province, Regional Director of Health Services Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara Districts and the MOH Offices in the Western Province joined forces to conduct a wide-reaching awareness campaign. The collaborative effort distributed informative flyers to 50,000 individuals at key high-traffic transportation hubs, including train and bus stations.

World Leprosy Day, observed annually, serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against leprosy and the importance of fostering awareness within communities. With the recent unforeseen rise in Leprosy in the country, Hemas Pharmaceuticals and the Anti Leprosy Campaign have decided to leverage this day to make a tangible impact on leprosy awareness.

The focal point of this initiative was the distribution of 50,000 informative flyers designed to educate the public on leprosy, its symptoms, and that Leprosy is curable with timely diagnosis and medication. A team of dedicated personnel from the Anti Leprosy Campaign, RDHS Office, MOH Offices, NIHS, CMC and Hemas Pharmaceuticals were stationed at major train and bus stations across the Western Province, ensuring the dissemination of vital information.

Mr. Jude Fernando, Managing Director at Hemas Pharmaceuticals, stated, “Our collaboration with the Anti Leprosy Campaign is a testament to our shared commitment to public health. With this initiative observing World Leprosy Day 2024, we are proud to contribute to spreading awareness of Leprosy, reaching a diverse audience, fostering a better-informed community.”

Dr. Prasad Ranaweera, Director at Anti Leprosy Campaign, added, “World Leprosy Day provides us with a platform to engage with the community and dispel misconceptions surrounding leprosy. This awareness campaign is one such initiative of our continuous efforts in grappling with the Leprosy situation in the country. We extend our gratitude to our health authority colleagues and Hemas Pharmaceuticals for partnering with us on this project.”

Hemas Pharmaceuticals along with the Anti Leprosy Campaign invite the community to join them in raising awareness and contributing to the national effort to eliminate the disease in the country.

As the leading pharmaceutical distributor in Sri Lanka, Hemas Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Hemas Holdings PLC, stands at the forefront of commitment to public health. Renowned for its streamlined and modernized operations, Hemas Pharmaceuticals has become a symbol of excellence in the nation’s pharmaceutical industry.

January 8, 2024

The Phoenix Homeopathic Private Hospital was recently inaugurated under the patronage of the Stete Minister of Indigenous Medicine Mr. Sisira Jayakodi. Homeopathic practitioner, Dr. P.M. Chatura Hatharasinghe took the initiative to launch this private hospital, which provides treatment under the world-recognised homeopathic medical field. Having completed a degree in homeopathic medicine from the National Institute of Homeopathy in Calcutta, India, with a scholarship received from the Ministry of Indigenous Medicine, Dr. Hatharasinghe has been working in the country as a government-registered homeopathic practitioner for more than four years.

Phoenix Hospital can be considered as the first homeopathic private hospital built in Sri Lanka fully equipped with modern facilities. Patients visiting it near Eldeniya Church in Kadawatha can receive homeopathic medical treatment as well as psychological treatment and psychiatric consultation services related to homeopathic medicine. Phoenix Hospital has a qualified and experienced medical and nursing staff to treat any medical condition with homeopathic medicine. Homeopathic Practitioner Dr. Nayanaka De Alwis has also joined Phoenix Hospitals to treat patients. Dr. Hatharasinghe, who has gained significant reputation by treating both local and foreign patients, spoke during the event and said: “Nowadays, many patients around the world have turned to homeopathic medicine and have been cured. Especially in Sri Lanka, many people have great faith in homeopathic medicine. Phoenix Hospital is capable of promoting homeopathic medicine in Sri Lanka as well as providing quick recovery to patients. I am especially thankful to the State Minister of Indigenous Medicine Sisira Jayakodi, for his support in making this task a success.”

Newer Posts

Older Posts

Nawaloka Hospitals PLC assures stakeholders of strong financial capability amidst recent rumors

Hemas Labs Expands Reach in Southern Province with Galle Lab

Driving Cervical Cancer Elimination in Sri Lanka

FootBalance’s 3D foot scanning technology shortlisted in Sport Technology Awards 2024

Leading the Way of Sustainably: Ninewells Hospital; The First Private Healthcare Provider to Receive Prestigious Green Building Council Certification

Zuellig Pharma acquires Cialis® (Tadalafil) and Alimta® (Pemetrexed) from Lilly in select ASEAN markets

Hemas Hospitals Supports Gifted Young Savant with Treatment for Rare Medical Condition

New Mawanella Medical Centre becomes the Best Health and Wellness Service Provider of the Year at Pinnacle Awards

Hemas Pharmaceuticals and The Anti Leprosy Campaign Unite to Mark World Leprosy Day 2024, Reach 50,000 with Informative Flyers

Phoenix Homeopathic Hospital in Kadawatha opened under the patronage of State Minister of Indigenous Medicine Sisira Jayakodi