The Joseph Fraser Memorial Hospital Trust (JFMH Trust), a registered non-profit charity in Sri Lanka, has committed to enhancing and modernizing histopathology services at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. This initiative marks a significant advancement in patient care, medical education, and research within the country.
Currently, the Histopathology Unit at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura processes approximately 3,800 to 4,000 specimens annually from the Professorial Unit of the Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Kalubowila. Among these, around 500 to 600 cases are breast cancer specimens that necessitate hormone receptor testing to inform appropriate clinical management. Up until now, these crucial tests were unavailable within the University laboratory, requiring specimens to be sent to external laboratories for processing.
Phase 1: Establishment of Immunohistochemistry Testing Facilities
As part of Phase 1 of this initiative, the Histopathology Unit will receive the necessary facilities to perform hormone receptor testing within its Immunohistochemistry (IHC) laboratory. The JFMH Trust has fully funded this phase as a donation, with the first installment already disbursed, allowing the work to commence.
The laboratory premises for this phase have been allocated, with completion expected in the coming months. Phase 1 will also encompass the provision of all required reagents for testing and training for laboratory staff, ensuring sustainability and quality assurance from the outset.
The formal pledge letter was delivered by the JFMH Trust, represented by Chairman Dr. Manil Fernando and Most Senior Trustee Mr. Thomas Daeitwyler. It was officially accepted at the Dean’s Office of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura by:
- Professor Manori Gamage, Dean, Faculty of Medical Sciences
- Professor Bimalka Seneviratne, Professor in Pathology
- Dr. Charisma Shahi Fernando, Senior Lecturer and Consultant Histopathologist
Also present at the meeting were Mr. Manilal Fernando, Management Trustee, and Mr. William, Secretary of the Trust.
Phases 2 and 3: Toward a Cutting-Edge Histopathology Laboratory
Discussions between the JFMH Trust and the University also explored Phases 2 and 3 of the project, concentrating on comprehensive laboratory restructuring and modernization. Proposed developments include:
- A modern grossing station
- Automated machines for routine grossing and immunohistochemistry
- A multi-header microscope system with screens for undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, multidisciplinary team meetings, and inter-specialty collaboration
- Establishment of computerized laboratory reporting software, allowing clinicians instant access to pathology reports
These advancements aim to position the Histopathology Laboratory of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura as a provider of cutting-edge diagnostic services to patients while significantly enhancing medical education, digital reporting, and research collaboration. Notably, it would also enable partnerships with foreign university departments in reporting, teaching, and research through digital pathology platforms.
The JFMH Trust has committed to ongoing support in collaborating with the University to complete Phases 2 and 3. In response, the Histopathology Department has agreed to prepare a detailed project proposal for these phases and submit it to the Trust for further consideration.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
This collaboration represents a shared commitment between the Joseph Fraser Memorial Hospital Trust and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to elevate diagnostic pathology services in Sri Lanka. By improving access to essential cancer diagnostics and modern laboratory infrastructure, the initiative promises lasting benefits for patients, clinicians, students, and the wider medical community.
