15 October 2024, Vientiane, Lao PDR: Today, Vice Minister of Health Dr Snong Thongsna formally launched a series of new (Laws on Health and Primary Health Care) or revised (Law on Health Care) health-related laws aimed at strengthening the country's public health system and improving the health and well-being of the Lao people. He was joined at the legislative milestone by representatives from several ministries, international organizations, hospitals and health sector partners in Vientiane.
"These laws represent a significant step forward in our efforts to provide quality healthcare to all Lao citizens," said Vice Minister Dr Snong Thongsna. "They will help us to address critical health challenges and improve the well-being of our people."
"Effective health legislation is the cornerstone of a strong and resilient healthcare system. It provides the necessary framework to ensure access to quality healthcare services, protect public health, and promote the well-being of all citizens. These laws are a testament to our government's commitment to investing in the health of our people and building a healthier future for Lao PDR, and are the result of significant work by many dedicated officials and partners."
The first law, the "Law on Health", passed in July 2023, reaffirms the government's commitment to health by enshrining an allocation of at least 9% of the total budget, to the health sector. The overarching legislation also connects and guides multiple health laws and regulations, and defines the overall functions of the Ministry of Health and its governance structure, and clarifies roles and responsibilities.
The second law, the "Law on Primary Health Care", passed in November 2023, empowers communities and village health volunteers to participate in the design and delivery of primary health care services, and strengthens and integrates health services for effective delivery at the community level. In support of this, the law establishes a central Primary Health Care Committee, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, with deputy chairs and members including health, home affairs, education and sports, and other line ministries and sectors. The committee, and other aspects of the law, will enhance multisectoral governance to better implement the many relevant laws, policies and strategies on primary health care, and ensure better healthcare for Lao communities.
The third, a revision of the "Law on Health Care", passed in November 2023, sets essential guidelines to regulate the growing private healthcare sector. This includes licensing requirements for private hospitals, clinics, and centres, and better defining "healthcare professionals," requiring them to hold licenses issued by the Health Professional Council and register in the Council's database. The law, and effective enforcement, will contribute to improving the quality and safety of healthcare services, and strengthen the qualified healthcare workforce. Like other laws, this will require close coordination with relevant sectors and support from communities and those sectors.
The three pieces of legislation were developed or revised by the Ministry of Health, alongside the National Assembly, Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Justice, and related ministries. Development of the Law on Health was supported jointly by WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC). The Law on Primary Health Care was jointly supported by UNICEF and WHO, while revision of the Law on Health Care was supported by WHO.
"The passage of these health laws is a crucial step towards achieving universal health coverage and health for all in Lao PDR," said WHO's Dr Tim Armstrong. "These laws represent a commitment to a future in Lao PDR where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. The World Health Organization has been privileged to support this substantial legal reform, forming part of our commitment to continuous support to the Ministry of Health and, most importantly, assisting in the effective implementation of these laws to deliver a positive impact on the lives of the Lao people."
"The Primary Health Care Law represents a pivotal step for Lao PDR, transforming the Government's vision into tangible action to ensure that all families -- especially those in hard-to-reach areas -- can benefit from essential health services," said Arturo Romboli, Deputy Representative, UNICEF Lao PDR. "The multi-sectoral approach, encompassing health, education, water and sanitation, and social protection, will be key to its success. UNICEF is proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Health, WHO and all partners in strengthening health service delivery and ensuring that no one is left behind."
Since 2021, the Lao Ministry of Health has made significant progress on health-sector law development. In addition to the newly launched laws, and the Law on Communicable Diseases, the Ministry is updating the Law on Health Insurance, and Law on Medicines and Medical Products, as well as other legislation, with support from WHO and other development partners.