Neville Fernando Hospital to be handed over today

The much-discussed Government takeover of Dr. Neville Fernando Private Hospital is to take place today at a ceremony held with President Maithripala Sirisena in attendance. 

Following Cabinet approval, the hospital will be owned and managed by the Government. 

Health Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne earlier announced that the Government will implement a management style similar to Jayawardanapura Hospital, where hospital will treat patients free, while simultaneously offering the option of paying wards as well. 

He also said that the Neville Fernando Hospital is to be converted into a teaching hospital under the Government, and a separate administrative board is to be appointed to oversee the hospital’s functions.