Arogya 2012 to showcase Lanka's healthcare potential

by Gayan KANCHANA

The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) and the Ministry of Health will hold the Arogya 2012 International Healthcare Exhibition and Medical Symposium at the BMICH from August 17-19 to promote the potential and capabilities of Sri Lankan healthcare sector and position the country as a health education hub in South Asia.

"Arogya 2012" will showcase Sri Lanka's standard of the healthcare sector, its facilities and expertise.

Diagnosis, knowledge on health and nutrition, special project to combat communicable diseases and opportunities for business and investment in the healthcare sector are some of the key areas that will be promoted.

Deputy Minister of Health Lalith Disanayake said, "Today Sri Lanka is one of the best medical service providers in Asia.We can promote our medical industry for tourists too. Medical tourism is one of growing tourism sectors in the world. With our free medical facilities this will help bringing more revenue to the country. By this exhibition we could woo investors to the sector," he said.

Arogya 2012 Committee Chairman, Sujeeva Samaraweera said, Sri Lanka "could be easily accessed through direct air link between the country and the rest of the world," he said.

He said "The aim of the exhibition is to create an awareness on advanced treatment and new products and services among the public, professionals, students overseas visitors and private sector healthcare institutions.

All stakeholders in the healthcare sector including local and international healthcare providers, professionals in the healthcare sector, local and international buyers and sellers of medical related products and services, academics and students, investors and public will participate," he said.