Remarks at the oxygen piping handover in Savannakhet

HE, Minister of Health, Dr. Bounfeng PHOUMMALAYSITH

Governor of Savannakhet Province, HE, Mr Bounjoum Oubonserth

My dear senior colleagues from the Ministry of Health, USAID, and WHO.

I am delighted to join you today to mark the handover of this vital oxygen piping system. This is not just about handing over equipment; it is about celebrating yet another milestone in our shared progress towards a healthier Lao PDR and advancing universal health coverage (UHC) in this country.

Every breath taken through this system could represent a life saved. It is a tangible symbol of the power of investment in health, and the effects this has for people, for communities and for provinces like Savannakhet.

For that, I would like to thank USAID for their generous contribution, WHO for its efforts to deliver the system, and our provincial and Ministry of Health colleagues for enabling this great result.

Investing in health is about so much more than building hospitals. It is about building a strong and resilient health system that can withstand any challenge. It is about ensuring that all people living in Lao PDR, no matter their background or location, have equitable access to quality, affordable healthcare.

As we all learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, a healthy population is the critical basis of a thriving society.

When we see the results of a strong health system, and well-managed, effective facilities like this in Savannakhet, we are reminded - investing in health is not an expense; it is an investment in our future, in the future of Lao PDR.

We have seen the benefits of strong health systems firsthand. Lao PDR has made remarkable progress in improving health outcomes in recent years. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Lao government, healthcare workers, and our partners.

But that journey is far from over. We must intensify our investment in the health sector. It is time for us to actively explore innovative solutions to improve sustainable health financing and support for health for all – be it new partners, pro-health taxes, or other creative solutions. The United Nations is committed to supporting Lao PDR in its journey towards universal health coverage.

Today, as we hand over this oxygen piping system, let us remember that this is just one step in our journey. Let us continue to invest in health, let us build resilient health systems, and let us create a healthier future for all.

Thank you.

Read more: Savannakhet Hospital expands oxygen lifeline for patients with USAID and WHO support