The facility, upgraded at a cost of Rs. 99 million, was officially opened by Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa and Deputy Health Minister Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni.
While infrastructure upgrades are a regular feature of the healthcare system, investments in neurology carry particular significance. Neurological disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles are becoming an increasingly important area of healthcare, driven by an ageing population, changing disease patterns, and growing demand for specialised medical services.
According to health authorities, the upgraded institute is expected to improve the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions while enhancing patient care capacity at the country’s largest hospital.
As part of the development, Neurology Wards 62 and 63 were also opened, providing a total of 44 beds dedicated to patients requiring neurological treatment and care.
The expansion comes at a time when public hospitals continue to face pressure from rising patient volumes and increasing demand for specialised services. Improvements in diagnostic facilities, treatment capacity, and inpatient care are often critical factors in reducing delays and improving patient outcomes.
The event also recognised the history of neurological medicine in the country with the unveiling of a portrait of the Institute’s founder, Dr. J.B. Peiris, whose contributions helped establish neurology as a specialised field within the public healthcare system.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Jayatissa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving access to quality medical services.
The investment reflects a broader trend within the health sector, where attention is increasingly being directed towards expanding specialised treatment facilities alongside general healthcare services. As demand for neurological care continues to grow, the ability of public hospitals to provide timely diagnosis and treatment is likely to become an increasingly important component of healthcare planning.
For patients, the immediate benefit is expected to be improved access to specialised neurological services, additional bed capacity, and enhanced treatment facilities within the National Hospital system.
Last modified: June 3, 2026
