VIENTIANE: Efficiencies in expanding medical coverage across Laos received a major boost on Friday (Aug 14) with the inaugural Inclusion Champion Awards 2026 and Panel Discussion held in Vientiane, which highlighted practical solutions to remove healthcare barriers for underserved communities.
The event, held under the theme “Inclusive Community Health”, showcased how grassroots leadership and local health facilities are actively removing barriers to medical care for priority and underserved populations.
GIZ Laos, the ceremony celebrated progress in improving access to health services without discrimination based on gender, age, disability, ethnicity, or social and health status.
Three individuals and organisations received awards for their contributions to inclusive health services.
Udon Souphavanh was recognised for his dedicated work in the HIV/AIDS Response; the community organisation TestVTE was honoured for its contributions to Community Wellness; and Setthathirath Hospital was celebrated for its leadership in Inclusive Public Health.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Minister of Health Dr Phayvanh Keopaseuth said inclusive and non-discriminatory health services are essential for achieving universal health coverage and strengthening national social protection systems.
He noted that community participation remains vital to understanding specific barriers to care—such as stigma, violence, and discrimination—and identifying practical ways to improve services for all citizens, including sexual and gender-diverse communities.
Reaffirming a shared commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the principle of “leaving no one behind”, international support for local solutions was also announced during the event.
Canada introduced new funding through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to support TestVTE in expanding its non-discriminatory testing, treatment, and mental health initiatives.
Over the past decade, sustained cooperation between the Ministry of Health, civil society, community organisations, and international development partners—including Australia, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the European Union, SDC, Luxembourg Aid & Development, and GIZ—has helped expand essential health services, raise awareness, and address health-related stigma across the country. – Vientiane Times/ANN
