Special medical IDs for scribes, artistes

Rasika Somarathna

COLOMBO: A special ID card for artistes, literati and journalists which enables access to hassle free medical care through the Government owned health sector would soon be a reality with the Cultural Affairs Ministry taking the initiative in collaboration with the Health Ministry.

The first step towards realising this goal would take place with a free medical camp for artistes organised by the Ministry of Culture, on July 14 from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. at the John De Silva Memorial Theatre, Colombo 07.

All artistes will be registered in view of getting details for this special ID. Holders of this special ID would be entitled to special medical facilities in addition to not having to wait in queues at hospitals, Ministry sources said.

The free medical camp is to be launched with the support of "Doctor's For A Better World" organisation consisting of doctors including several specialists.

All those who attend will be checked and directed to relevant units according to requirements.

Cultural Ministry Additional Director Lakshman Perera requested all artistes to make use of this opportunity.

Cultural Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardene and Health Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva will inaugurate the event.