Our Journey Through the Years
The Batticaloa Medical Society was renamed as the Batticaloa Medical Association (BMA). Informal evening meetings turned into regular academic forums with case discussions by consultants and house officers, and joint programs with other regional medical associations.
After a heavy cyclone hit Batticaloa district, BMA members engaged in their first community-based health program to help alleviate the suffering of the affected community.
The present emblem for BMA was created during the tenure of the 10th BMA committee, marking a significant step in the association's development.
The first reactivation of BMA occurred. During this period, traditional oil lamps, chairs, and public address systems were replaced with more organized continuing medical education (CME) programs. Mobile medical services were started in partnership with community organizations like the Rotary Club, Lions Club, and Ramakrishna Mission. These services helped those unable to access health services due to the prevailing situation and poverty. These mobile services continued for many years until the general situation improved.
The BMA's functioning, along with the general functioning of the people of Batticaloa, was heavily impacted by the devastating Tsunami, which caused enormous loss of life and property. Recovering from the initial shock, BMA, with the help of local well-wishers and organizations, launched a massive health program to reach out to the affected community. A portion of the donation received was handed over to the Bishop of Batticaloa for the welfare of the affected community, and a primary health care center was opened in Kallady with the joint efforts of BMA, BUDS, and MIOT. BMA has been providing free medical services at this center since its inception.
The peaceful ground situation led to the introduction of several new activities in BMA's history. Regular two-day annual scientific sessions were initiated under the leadership of Dr. T. Rudra, which also paved the way for the first official publication of the "Journal of Batticaloa Medical Association" in July 2005. In addition to the Annual Scientific Sessions, Foundation sessions, Year-End party, Sarawathy pooja, and Christmas programs became part of the regular calendar activities. The annual cricket encounter between the medical fraternity and sponsors was also started, ensuring better relationships and continuous support for the annual sessions.
In 2007, another humanitarian crisis arose, as people from parts of Batticaloa district and neighboring Trincomalee district were displaced due to civil war. They were housed in temporary shelters in and around Batticaloa. Once again, BMA members were actively involved in providing mobile medical services.
Members of BMA successfully negotiated with the then hospital administrators to secure part of the new building built with funding assistance from NECDEP. In 2008, BMA moved into this new building. The library was upgraded with donations from well-wishers and an annual grant from the Ministry of Health. Computers with internet facilities were installed, and photocopying facilities were extended to BMA members.
The Batticaloa Medical Association (BMA) is currently undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of Professor Viji Thirukumar. This period of reform focuses on enhancing the association's operational efficiency, expanding its reach, and improving the services it provides to its members and the broader healthcare community. The following key initiatives have been undertaken as part of these reforms, marking a new era of growth and modernization for BMA.
In a significant move towards modernization, the BMA is proud to announce the launch of its new online platform on May 22, 2025. This website is equipped with comprehensive capabilities, including the management of Continuous Medical Education (CME) activities, membership registrations, and financial administration.
In line with its growth and evolving role, BMA is undertaking a revision of its constitution to align with the changing needs of its members. This includes formal registration under the Company Act, marking an important step in strengthening BMA's organizational structure.
As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, BMA is also focusing on significant physical renovations. This includes updating the furniture in the library and reforming the lecture hall to better accommodate the educational needs of members.
BMA is expanding its membership base beyond the previous focus Teaching hospital Batticaloa. The new membership offerings are now open to medical professionals in RDHS, medical professionals residing outside of Sri Lanka and to medical students.
Recognizing the critical role of nursing professionals, BMA has extended its CME programs to include nursing officers. This initiative aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of nursing staff.
As part of its efforts to promote research and innovation in healthcare, BMA is partnering with Eastern University to establish a collaborative platform for research facilitation and ethical review.