WHO Supports Lao PDR’s Healthcare with Oxygen Plants in Provincial Hospitals
The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) recently inaugurated its second provincial medical oxygen plant at Savannakhet Provincial Hospital. This pivotal development was made possible through the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the first time that the province will have the capacity to produce oxygen. Furthermore, two similar units are currently under installation at Oudomxay and Luang Prabang provincial hospitals, expected to become operational in the coming months.
The establishment of these three containerized oxygen plants is part of the 33.5 billion Lao Kip (equivalent to US$1.7 million) donation from WHO. This substantial contribution will ensure a steady supply of oxygen to assist tens of thousands of patients annually. Earlier in February 2023, the first plant in the country was inaugurated at Champasack Provincial Hospital, thanks to the support from the Global Fund and the Clinton Health Assistance Initiative (CHAI).
The three provincial hospitals will now have the ability to produce their own oxygen, capable of filling up to 75,000 cylinders each year. This oxygen will be a lifeline for patients undergoing surgeries, maternal and childcare procedures, and those suffering from conditions like heart failure, asthma, or pneumonia.
Medical oxygen plays a pivotal role in saving lives, particularly in the treatment of diseases like Covid-19. In Lao PDR, the existing oxygen production infrastructure is limited, leading to a dependence on liquid oxygen imports from neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand. This reliance on external sources can become precarious during public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when the demand for oxygen surges.
During a recent visit to the newly inaugurated Savannakhet plant, HE Dr Snong Thongsna, the Vice Minister of Health, expressed his gratitude towards WHO, emphasizing the life-saving impact of this donation, stating that it would ensure the health system is better prepared for future public health emergencies when extra oxygen is required.
In addition to the oxygen production and refilling systems, WHO’s support package included the construction of necessary facilities, backup power generators, a three-year supply of spare parts, 200 cylinders for each site, and comprehensive training for technicians at each location.
Dr Ying-Ru Jacqueline Lo, WHO Representative, emphasized the critical role of oxygen in healthcare, adding that the support will ensure more people in Lao PDR, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women, and newborns, and also provided an opportunity to improve electrical and other related infrastructure and engineering capacity for hospitals.
Oxygen supply has remained one of WHO’s primary priorities for supporting Lao PDR, especially during and after the coronavirus pandemic. This support encompasses not only the provision of medical oxygen equipment and oxygen itself but also extensive training for healthcare workers and technical assistance.
In conclusion, the establishment of these provincial medical oxygen plants in Lao PDR, with WHO’s generous support, represents a significant step forward in improving the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. It not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also strengthens the country’s ability to respond to future public health emergencies. This initiative serves as a testament to the power of international collaboration in advancing healthcare and saving lives in regions that need it most.
Category: Community
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