Case study - SPHC Myanmar: Progress towards universal health coverage and improved health equity in Myanmar

Context

In Myanmar, The SPHIP is also reaching out to community groups, such as Inclusive Self-Help Groups.

Objective

To contribute to the process of health reform in Myanmar to achieve equitable and universal healthcare goals.

Impact

In Myanmar the SPHIP Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) research project helped the government to develop a national NCD strategy and training materials for health workers nationwide in diagnosis, treatment and inclusion of NCD services in the package of care. 340 township health officers were trained in management and control of NCDs. Ten policy briefs and fact sheets were produced as well as a Mental Health strategic plan.

The University of Public Health was supported in strategic planning and its scientific staff strengthened.

Initial evaluation of the project showed an increase in the demand for services; however, improvement is still needed to achieve universal healthcare.

The Union Minister of Health and Sports for Myanmar said: “The impact of the EU supported project was immense, and we consider this as the steppingstone for NCDs prevention and control initiatives in the country.  While we thank EU for their support, we also request EU to continue support for NCD interventions to sustain the effort of this project.”

(C) Ben Small