Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world with free healthcare and education, both of which have been national priorities for decades. OPD facilities are readily available in public (general) hospitals situated in major towns and cities, with laboratory and radiology facilities common in most. But most illnesses can be treated in teaching hospitals in Colombo, Colombo South, Colombo North, Kandy/Peradeniya, Galle (Karapitiya Hospital) and Jaffna. All doctors and nurses in the government hospitals are qualified and trained, with some of the most experienced staff working at the teaching hospitals.For emergencies, especially accidents, it is highly recommended to go directly to General hospital accident services as they are equipped with the staff and facilities to handle emergencies.