The foundation stone for the ‘Sathpethi’ Interventional Centre for Autism and Neurodiversity, being constructed at the premises of the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children in Colombo at a cost of Rs. 252 million, was laid today (06).
Considering the urgent need for specialised healthcare services in this field, relevant authorities have been instructed to expedite construction work and complete the project by December next year, making the facility available to the public.
Emphasis was also placed on completing the procurement of necessary medical equipment, securing approval for the required staff cadre and providing the necessary training to staff without delay.
Currently, more than 50% of the children attending clinics at the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit of the Lady Ridgeway Hospital have neurodevelopmental conditions.
Accordingly, the new centre is expected to play a significant role in addressing the healthcare needs of these children by providing specialised services and support.
