Lao PDR to Use ICT to Improve Rural Health Care Training

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is helping bring information and communication technology (ICT) to rural areas in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) to enhance health services.

ADB will provide technical assistance to develop “e-centers” in two pilot provinces, Savannakhet and Xieng Khouang, to bring affordable access to the Internet, e-mail, computer training, and online services to 16 district hospitals and health centers. The project will also help the Government bring better training programs to rural health workers through ICT.

The Republic of Korea e-Asia and Knowledge Partnership Fund is providing a $500,000 grant to be managed by ADB, while the Government of Lao PDR is contributing $100,000 to complete the funding requirement.

“Currently, the provincial capacity to provide quality training for rural health workers is limited,” said Susan Kerr, Principal Human Resource Development Specialist of ADB’s Southeast Asia Department. “The Ministry of Health wants to build and improve the skills of primary health care worker through training that utilizes information and communication technology.”

Lao PDR has made significant progress in reducing poverty, but poverty levels remain high in rural areas. In its Sixth National Socio-economic Development Plan (2006-2010), the Government has emphasized reducing rural poverty and achieving the Millennium Development Goals by improving rural health services.

The Millennium Development Goals serve as a blueprint for nations and development institutions in reducing poverty and improving lives.

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