First, Treat the System: The Atlantic Philanthropies’ Effort to Promote Health and Equity in Viet Nam

Atlantic’s efforts to improve public health and primary health care in Viet Nam are benefiting the country’s 80 million people, according to this new report.  The scope of work has resulted in replicable models of care in urban centres and rural provinces. While less than a decade old, the results appear to provide fundamental and lasting changes for the Vietnamese health system, said Tony Proscio.

The report charts Atlantic’s more than $250 million of investments — particularly since 2003–to help Viet Nam create a more equitable primary care health care system and instil a culture of public health. To do so, Atlantic worked at all levels of the country—from funding the rebuilding of more than 700 community clinics in seven provinces and 12 urban hospitals to investing in training for health professionals, and creating or strengthening national centres of excellence, including a public health school that has become its leading teaching and training institution.

At each step, Atlantic and its partners have developed the trust of government officials at the provincial and national levels and secured logistical, financial and policy support that increases the chances for lasting change.

Atlantic commissioned this report. 

Watch a short video of the report’s findings:

More Funding Lessons from Viet Nam

• Gaining Government Buy-In
• Building Upon Donor Intent
• Building a Culture of Public Health