Health Sector Capacity to Manage Climate Change in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Perspectives from Key Stakeholders

Thesis (Master's)--University of Washington, 2017-06Rationale: Climate change in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is leading to increases in temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns, a trend that is expected to accelerate in the coming decades. Weather unpredictability has become the norm resulting in an increase in frequently and intensity of extreme weather events, particularly floods and drought. Climate change and variability in Lao PDR has both direct and indirect impacts on human health and puts added strain on the health system. Objective: This mixed methods study aims to assess the perceptions of climate change and its impacts on the health system in Lao PDR from key stakeholders in health and other relevant institutions and government ministries, as well as identify the barriers and opportunities of the health sector capacity to manage climate change in the coming decades. Methods: Using a structured questionnaire (n=26) and semi-structured in-depth interviews (n=7), this study collected data on how key stakeholders view the health sector capacity to manage climate change in Lao PDR. Descriptive statistics from quantitative data were computed, described, and compared based on predefined themes. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using Dedoose. Results: 88% of participants think climate change is occurring in Lao PDR and 69.2% reported they felt health facilities were somewhat prepared for a flood event. Themes from the interviews revolved around limited human resources and budget as a major barrier to implementing climate change and health adaptation programs with improved coordination as the most viable opportunity. Conclusion: Most study participants had some understanding of climate change and its impact on health in Lao PDR, resulting in a high level of confidence in the health sectors capacity to manage climate change. Moving forward, coordination across sectors will be key in the development of successful climate and health adaptation programs in Lao PDR. Keywords: Climate change adaptation, climate and health, Lao PD