Development of Health Economy in the Island of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The Ayurveda universities are producing hundreds of native doctors annually. They can practise in different places and branches. Some of them join the Government Ayurveda hospitals, some practise privately and some are based in hotel and tourism industry. The Ayurveda medication has a long history on the island of Sri Lanka, which can be broadly traced in various sources. According to historical events, the advanced health economy was initially spawned through the introduction of Buddhism since the 6th century before Christ (544 BC). Till then, the locals were medically treating each other with the knowledge acquired by experience. Nevertheless, after 544 BC, another phenomenon occurred: there emerged many Kings as native doctors as well. Among such people, we could usually observe those elites who received education in Guru Gedera (school). They were additionally qualified as building engineers, irrigational engineers, artisans and native doctors. The native doctors were called «Vedana» and they were specialized in various fields viz: gynaecologists, veterinary surgeons, general physicians, etc. King Pandukabhaya, King Buddhadasa and King Parakramabahu I are some of famous native doctors in the ancient past. Their work and treatment methods are well-known and worth reviewing in our article. Besides, its contrast is shown to modern treatment techniques and what differences between them consist in. In particular, we see a difference of treatment and prevention approaches. Previously, natural substances were used as healing items; no drugs were engaged at all. From the British colonisation moment, European techniques were brought to improve the Sri Lankan medicine. Also, not only the past health economy evolution is discussed in the article. It is the specialized modern institutions that are focused on. Especially, what are the most relevant hospitals in Sri Lanka, how they are subdivided, what diseases they recover from, how medical aid is provided to specific age or occupation categories. The issue of state and private medical institutions is described as well: what advantages and disadvantages exist for them. Finally, the conclusion is made whether the Sri Lankan health economy system is reliable and resilient in the modern world.