A Policy to Bring Healthcare Closer to Every Household in Colombo.
Good health is a basic right — not a privilege for the few. Healthy Colombo, Stronger Lives aims to strengthen public clinics, improve access to affordable care, and support community wellness across all wards. With a focus on prevention, dignity, and ward-level services, this initiative brings quality healthcare closer to every household.
The Problem
- Many families in Colombo’s low-income areas struggle to access basic healthcare.
- Government hospitals are overcrowded, understaffed, and often far from where people live.
- Long travel times, high transport costs, and missed work hours discourage people from seeking care early — especially mothers, children, and the elderly.
- Private clinics are too expensive, and there is little preventive care or awareness in most neighborhoods.
What We Have Now
- Large government hospitals in central locations (e.g. National Hospital, Lady Ridgeway Hospital).
- Some small MOH offices (Medical Officer of Health) for immunisations and maternal health.
- NGOs offering scattered medical camps and mobile clinics.
- CMC Dispensaries (Western & Traditional)
What We Will Improve
1. More Mobile Clinics in Underserved Areas
- Partner with medical universities and NGOs to run regular mobile health units — offering checkups, maternal care, diabetes and pressure screenings, and basic medicine.
- Focus on low income settlements.
2. Train Local Health Volunteers
- Select and train women and youth in the community to provide basic health support: first aid, medication reminders, and referrals.
- These volunteers will work under supervision and help bridge the gap between families and clinics.
3. Neighbourhood Health Desks
- Set up simple health counters at ward offices or community centres where people can:
- Get basic advice
- Refill long-term medication (blood pressure, diabetes)
- Book appointments at nearby clinics
What New Things We Will Introduce
1. Colombo Health Card
- A simple ID card (physical or digital) for low-income families to:
- Track vaccinations and prescriptions
- Access free services at partner clinics
- Register for mobile clinic visits and follow-ups
2. Online Health Tracker
- A city-run health dashboard (also displayed in local offices) showing:
- Upcoming free clinics
- Common health issues in each zone
- Number of patients served
3. Emergency Response Training
- Basic first-aid and CPR training for volunteers, tuk drivers, teachers, and shopkeepers.
- Helps reduce deaths from sudden health events in areas with poor ambulance access.
4. Mother & Child Health Focus
- Free nutrition packs and vitamins for pregnant women and toddlers through clinics and mobile services.
- Early screening for anemia, malnutrition, and respiratory issues.