Matale hospital was started in 1871. This was first situated near the McDowell Castle. Matale hospital has a history extending over 137 years. In 1889, Dr. J. Carberry was appointed to this hospital as the first health Medical Officer. It was in 1898, a Sri Lankan Medical Officer for the first time for the Matale hospital was appointed; he was Dr. J. Tilakarathne. In 1914, a DMO was appointed for the first time for the Matale hospital and he was Dr. Loyd Perera.