May 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s health sector has received a significant boost with the addition of advanced blood plasma exchange equipment valued at over Rs. 50 million, aimed at strengthening treatment capabilities for a range of serious medical conditions, including leptospirosis and blood-related cancers.
The donation comprises two high-tech Com.Tec MultiProcedural Machines units manufactured in Germany, which were formally handed over to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media by representatives of Premium International Private Limited. The equipment was received by Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa at a ceremony attended by senior health officials.
The contribution was made by Director Mahesh Fernando and General Manager Achala Moses of the company, which serves as the authorised local agent for the technology and has pledged continued technical assistance and after-sales support.
The newly donated machines are primarily used in plasmapheresis procedures, a specialised form of blood filtration therapy. Health authorities said the equipment will help improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from leptospirosis, haematological cancers, immune-related disorders, severe complications from snakebites, and individuals requiring pre- and post-organ transplant care.
Medical specialists also noted that the technology plays an important role in supporting critically ill patients awaiting stem cell or bone marrow transplants, including those diagnosed with conditions such as thalassaemia and certain aggressive blood cancers.
Speaking at the handover, company director Mahesh Fernando said the initiative reflects the private sector’s commitment to supporting national healthcare development, adding that the firm would continue to work closely with medical authorities to ensure proper installation, maintenance and training.
Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa welcomed the donation, stating that such public-private partnerships play a vital role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s free healthcare system, which continues to face rising costs for advanced treatments and medical technologies.
Officials further noted that similar equipment is already in use across multiple state hospitals, with around 19 units deployed islandwide through the National Blood Transfusion Service, benefiting patients in need of specialised blood purification therapies on a regular basis.