Laos's national health insurance is failing as the economy shrinks

Laos's national health insurance system is struggling to cover its citizens as the country's economy slows down. This means fewer people are getting essential healthcare, and families are paying more out of their own pockets for medical care.

Laos tried to build a national health insurance system to ensure everyone had access to care. But a shrinking economy and a weak currency mean the government cannot afford its share. This leaves people with chronic conditions, like heart disease and diabetes, without the long-term care they need. It also means the country faces a 'double burden' of both old and new diseases, with fewer resources to fight either.