A state-of-the-art AI-enabled Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory (Cath Lab), established at the Jaffna Teaching Hospital at a cost of Rs. 300 million, was declared open today (27) by Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
The new facility is expected to significantly expand access to specialised cardiac diagnosis and treatment for more than 1.1 million people living in the Northern Province, including Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar and Vavuniya districts. Patients from neighbouring districts such as Anuradhapura, Badulla and Trincomalee are also expected to benefit.
The Cath Lab is equipped to perform a range of life-saving procedures, including coronary angiography, angioplasty, stent implantation, heart valve interventions, and specialised diagnosis and treatment for cardiac rhythm disorders. The Ministry said the facility will reduce the need for open-heart surgery by enabling minimally invasive treatment.
During the visit, the Minister also handed over an echocardiography machine worth nearly Rs. 30 million, along with a range of modern medical equipment, including patient monitors, syringe pumps, infusion pumps, suction units and wheelchairs.
The Ministry said similar advanced Cath Lab facilities are planned for three more major hospitals in the future as part of efforts to strengthen specialised cardiac care across the country.
Following the opening ceremony, Minister Jayatissa inspected several sections of the hospital, including the outpatient department, operating theatres, emergency treatment unit, wards, laboratories, CT scan unit and ongoing development projects, and held discussions with hospital officials and healthcare staff.
He also assured that additional healthcare personnel required by the Jaffna Teaching Hospital would be appointed in the near future while steps would be taken to address existing issues and further strengthen the hospital’s human and physical resources. (Newswire)