Ninewells Eye – Sri Lanka’s first fully integrated eye care hub

From left: Ninewells Hospital General Manager Ramkishore Krishnamoorthy, Head of Medical Services Dr. Romesh Fernando, CEO and Director Dr. Vibash Wijeratne, CFO Sandun Wajira Kumara and Business Development DGM Rajiv Bandaranayaka at the press briefing  – Pic by Ruwan Walpola 

• New centre offers comprehensive ophthalmic services with advanced technology and specialised in-house expertise

 By Amira Cader

Ninewells Hospital Ltd., has officially unveiled Ninewells Eye, Sri Lanka’s first fully integrated eye care hub, marking a major milestone in the country’s private healthcare landscape. The new facility was declared open recently at the Ninewells Hospital premises, bringing together comprehensive ophthalmic services under one roof for adults and children alike.

Designed for efficiency, convenience and clinical excellence, Ninewells Eye integrates outpatient consultations, advanced diagnostics, surgery, optical services and pharmacy facilities on a single floor. This end-to-end model enables patients to move seamlessly from diagnosis to treatment and discharge, setting a new benchmark in patient-centred eye care in Sri Lanka. 

Ninewells Hospital Director and CEO Dr. Vibash Wijeratna said the initiative reflects the hospital’s long-term commitment to specialised healthcare excellence. 

“Ninewells Eye represents our vision of integrated, patient-focused care. By bringing consultation, diagnostics, surgery and optical solutions together in one space, we are transforming the eye care experience while maintaining the highest international standards,” He stated. 

He further noted that cataract and glaucoma—among the most common eye-related conditions in Sri Lanka—will be managed comprehensively at Ninewells Eye by an experienced in-house team of specialised ophthalmologists, ensuring timely diagnosis, advanced treatment and continuity of care under one roof.

The centre features two dedicated eye surgery theatres, equipped with the latest ophthalmic technology to support procedures such as modern cataract surgery and other advanced interventions. A full range of diagnostics, including OCT imaging, visual field testing and laser treatments, ensures precise diagnosis and minimally invasive care with faster recovery times.

From a strategic and operational perspective, Ninewells Hospital Chief Financial Officer – Group Sandun Wajira Kumara noted that the investment aligns with sustainable healthcare delivery. 

“This is not just an infrastructure expansion but a value-driven investment in quality, efficiency and long-term patient outcomes, with an investment of Rs. 500 million, Ninewells Eye has been developed to meet international standards, enabling integrated care that allows us to optimise resources while improving accessibility, affordability and overall patient experience.” He noted.

Clinical leadership remains central to the new hub, Ninewells Hospital Head of Medical Services Dr. Romesh Fernando highlighted the medical advantages of the integrated model.

“Patients benefit from continuity of care—consultation, investigations, surgery and post-operative follow-up are all streamlined. This significantly enhances safety, accuracy and overall clinical outcomes,” He said.

Ninewells Hospital Deputy General Manager – Business Development Rajiv Bandaranayaka emphasised its role in meeting rising demand.

“With increasing eye health needs across all age groups, Ninewells Eye is positioned to bridge critical gaps in specialised eye care while supporting Sri Lanka’s evolving healthcare expectations,” he noted.

Operational excellence and patient comfort were also key priorities. Ninewells Hospital Group General Manager Ramkishore Krishnamoorthy pointed to features such as a dedicated VIP lounge and streamlined same-day discharge processes.

“Every aspect of Ninewells Eye has been designed to reduce patient stress and waiting time, ensuring a smooth, dignified experience for patients and their families, adding that the centre is structured to deliver the highest level of personalised care and premium services for those who are able to afford them, while maintaining the hospital’s overall commitment to quality and clinical excellence.

With the launch of Ninewells Eye, Ninewells Hospital further strengthens its specialised service portfolio, reinforcing its mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality healthcare and positioning itself at the forefront of advanced eye care in Sri Lanka.