The Health Centre was established in 1952 in the University of Ceylon, Peradeniya during the tenure of Professor Ivor Jennings as the Vice-chancellor. Its primary objective was to provide health care for resident students and the University community. In catering to primary healthcare needs, the Health Centre operates a full-fledged laboratory services, 24 hour ambulance service and a preventive health care service .
It is situated in a picturesque setting on the Sangamitta Hill at the southern end of the university. Its staff comprising the Chief Medical Officer (Head of Department), four medical officers and other supportive staff are dedicated to cater to the health care needs of the University community including the non-resident students and employees
The services provided by the centre include,
An Outpatient Treatment Department (OPD)
The OPD is open from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm during week days, and from 9.00 am to 11.00 am on weekends. However, emergency cases are attended to throughout day and night
A 24-hour indoor treatment facility
Patients who need indoor treatment are admitted to the male and female wards at any time of the day or night. Two isolation wards are available to treat students with infectious diseases (Mumps, Chicken Pox etc.). A well-equipped laboratory is available to carry out investigations required by the university medical Officers.
A pharmacy
It issues medicines for the prescriptions by the University Medical officers.
A 24-hour ambulance service
This service may be obtained at the request made through the Warden, Sub Warden, Dean or Assistant Registrar.
Immunizations
Immunization programs are carried out for Hepatitis B vaccine (for Dental, Allied Health & Medical students) and Anti Rabies Vaccine, Tetanus toxoid vaccine are administered to Veterinary Science students when necessary. The H1N1 and the Rubella vaccines are given only when there is an epidemic under the guidance of the Epidemiologist.
Psychological Counseling
Stress, anxiety and various psychosomatic illnesses are quite common amongst the university community and the university medical officers have received specialized training in psychological counseling to help/treat members of the university community.
Preventive health care
This is given great emphasis. Public Health Inspectors and a work force of trained personnel provide these services under the supervision of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Their responsibilities include monitoring food hygiene, ensuring purity of drinking water, maintenance of the university sewerage, garbage disposal, environmental sanitation and pest control.