Pioneering Chronic-phase Rehabilitation and Nutritional Management in Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and Viet Nam: Promotion of a Broad-based Healthcare System

The second part of this project focuses on chronic-phase rehabilitation and nutritional management at hospitals in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Viet Nam in line with the concept of a ‘broad-based healthcare system’ based on the Asia Health and Wellbeing Initiative of the Government of Japan. This study shows the potential of chronic-phase rehabilitation and nutritional management as specific strategies for a ‘broad-based healthcare system.’ In the countries studied it was often difficult to provide sufficient rehabilitation and nutritional support for patients due to staff shortages. Greater human resources are needed to establish a ‘broad-based healthcare system’, at least in terms of chronic-phase rehabilitation and nutritional development. Considering the diversities in the social, cultural, and political backgrounds of the countries covered in this study, it is important to gain a deep understanding of the real needs for the services, as presented in this project, to promote a ‘broad-based healthcare system.’ Multilateral cooperation amongst Cambodia, Japan, the Lao PDR, and Viet Nam has great potential to achieve the development of reliable and affordable healthcare systems. This would be in line with universal health coverage as referred to in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development of the United Nations, through mutual sharing of practices and lessons from different backgrounds. Health for all without leaving anyone behind is indispensable for creating mutually beneficial relationships amongst the countries in the region and indeed for enhancing economic development.