ILO report urges action to close social health protection gaps for persons with disabilities in Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic...

BANGKOK (News ILO) - Targeted reforms are needed to address gaps in social health protection coverage and access for people with disabilities in Cambodia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic and Viet Nam, according to a new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The study "Fostering inclusion: Advancing social health protection for persons with disabilities in Cambodia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic and Viet Nam" provides a detailed analysis as well as actionable recommendations to foster inclusion and improve access to healthcare for persons with disabilities in the region.

It highlights that despite the significant progress made by countries in the region to extend the coverage of social health protection schemes, greater efforts are required to ensure persons with disabilities benefit equitably from these advancements.

Persons with disabilities face higher healthcare needs, often translating into increased costs and poorer health outcomes without adequate protection. While all three countries in the study have made legal commitments to healthcare rights for persons with disabilities, these provisions are largely absent from legislation governing social health protection systems.

Population coverage emerges as a critical determinant of access for persons with disabilities. Viet Nam and the Lao People's Democratic Republic have achieved over 90 per cent coverage, including among persons with disabilities, thanks to comprehensive legal frameworks. In contrast, Cambodia faces broader gaps, with less than half the population covered, although persons with disabilities are comparatively better represented.

The report also examines the financial challenges faced by persons with disabilities, who often bear higher out-of-pocket healthcare costs due to gaps in benefit packages and service availability.

To address these issues, the report calls for comprehensive reforms. Recommendations include expanding universal population coverage, removing means-testing for persons with disabilities, and integrating disability-specific needs into benefit packages. The report emphasizes the importance of inclusive policymaking, enhanced disability certification systems, and targeted investments in rehabilitation services and assistive devices. Strengthening long-term care frameworks and addressing systemic barriers, such as service quality and accessibility are also identified as priorities.

"Persons with disabilities often face higher healthcare needs and costs, yet they remain underserved by existing protection systems. Inclusive reforms are vital to ensure that no one is left behind in the journey toward universal health coverage," said Marielle Phe Goursat, ILO Project Manager.