Why Did We Chose Laos?
As we approach our 10th anniversary we wanted to take a closer look at why we chose Laos in 2015 to open Lao Friends Hospital for Children.
In 2014, having just transferred control of the Angkor Hospital for Children to the local team, we at FWAB sought a new place to make a difference. Looking just next door to Laos, FWAB realized there were three critical reasons why Laos and Luang Prabang should be our next destination.
Firstly, Laos has the highest child mortality rate in Southeast Asia. Secondly, there were NO free children's hospitals outside of the capital city of Vientiane. Finally, poverty levels were so high that even the healthcare that was provided was unaffordable to most. Based on these three criteria, we decided to open a teaching hospital in Luang Prabang.
In Laos, poverty presents a substantial challenge that significantly affects the well-being of children across the country. Approximately 24% of the population lives below the national poverty line, with children bearing a considerable share of this hardship. Malnutrition is a notable concern, affecting many young lives. About 31% of children under five years old experience stunted growth, a sign of chronic undernutrition, while around 18% are affected by wasting, which indicates severe nutritional deficiencies. These conditions can lead to developmental delays and health issues, as many children do not receive the balanced diet necessary for healthy physical and cognitive development. Limited access to sufficient and nutritious food impacts immediate health and long-term prospects for these children.
Educational challenges also arise from the economic struggles faced by many families. The cost of school supplies, uniforms, and transportation can be a significant burden, leading to high dropout rates and gaps in educational achievement. Approximately 22% of children aged 6 to 14 are not enrolled in school, a situation often exacerbated by economic difficulties. For many families, children may have to forego their education to help with household responsibilities or labor to support the family, which further limits their future opportunities. In rural areas, the quality of education can be affected by limited resources, making it harder for children to access quality education and break the cycle of poverty.
It is against this backdrop that the FWAB team chose Laos. It is a beautiful country described as a hidden gem by tourists who pass through its mysterious mountains and peaceful rice fields while taking in the meandering Mekong. The people of Laos are just as beautiful as the surroundings they inhabit. Kind, sharing, and always smiling, Lao people are amongst the most generous anywhere in the world.
FWAB decided to open Lao Friends Hospital for Children to ensure the children of Laos received the free healthcare they deserve. You, our FWAB family, have helped to build LFHC into an institution providing free, high-quality care to 40,000 children annually and training thousands of healthcare professionals.
