Health Service Improvement Project – Laos – Global Development & Design

Conducted in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, this case study seeks to improve health outcomes for poor women and children in rural areas. Approved in September of 2005, and closed in December of 2015, the total project cost was ~27.5 million dollars, with measured moderatley effective impact. All indicator demonstrated improvement in health services with effects ranging from low to extreme. (Health Services Improvement, 2015)

When analyzing the checklist in comparison to this case study, we can see the well-being of individuals in Laos is increasing because they are making advancements in the healthcare system for citizens. The equality of the country as a whole increased because this program focuses specifically on poor women and children receiving the least amount of health services. The World Bank rated the environmental category a B for this case study, which could be improved in order to ensure this practice is environmentally sustainable. (Health Services Improvement, 2015) The human rights and responsibility guidelines were both impacted in a positive way, for access to healthcare is a basic human right, and this program expanded access to healthcare. Although this case study was largely positive based on the checklist, Laos is a communist country, meaning citizens’ freedom is still limited by the current government. Towards the end of this program in August of 2015, an article was published explaining that over 50% of their population received free access to healthcare, made possible by the World Bank fund. (World Bank Group, 2016)

World Bank Group. (2016, August 15). In Lao PDR’s Sekong Province, over 50 percent of the population get free access to healthcare. World Bank. Retrieved December 10, 2021, from World Bank

This is an example of countries providing better healthcare to their citizens. Laos was better preparing its healthcare system to reach more people. This is a good example of an ethical decision by a country to improve the lives of its citizens.

Case Study Evaluation using Project Evaluation Tool

Exemplary
(given from an average score of 4.2 across the 7 values of worthwhile development)

Well-Being

Score: 3/5

The project improved healthcare for many, particularly poor women, enhancing their well-being. However, improvements could enhance the overall experience for participants.

Equality

Score: 4/5

Laos has improved healthcare access for its poorer citizens, transforming healthcare from a wealth-versus-poor issue to a promotion of equality and refinement of disparities.

Human Rights

Score: 5/5

The project in Laos consistently upholds human rights, despite being a communist country, focusing on healthcare, demonstrating improvements in safeguards and proactive measures to prevent infringements.

Cultural Freedom

Score: 5/5

The project promotes cultural freedom by increasing healthcare access, ensuring cultural values are considered and preserved in targeted communities.

Agency and Empowerment

Score: 5/5

The project provided healthcare to the poor and villages, empowering the government to improve citizens’ lives and promoting self-sufficiency, autonomy, and personal and collective growth.

Responsibility

Score: 4/5

Healthcare options increased for villages, poorer people, and women, but Laos needs long-term sustainable practices and ethical considerations to ensure long-term sustainability.

Sustainability

Score: 4/5

Sustainability measures project’s long-term performance, requiring a long-lasting plan to ensure its success. Enhancements are needed to address long-term impacts and ensure long-term success.

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