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LAOS - Improving patient care: key takeaways from the 5G1S Annual Review Workshop
The Ministry of Health (MOH) of Lao PDR successfully concluded its annual review workshop on the implementation of the "5 Goods 1 Satisfaction" (5G1S) policy, held on February 26-27, 2025, in Thalat, Vientiane Province. Participants included high-level representatives from the MOH Cabinet, the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation (DHR), as well as the Departments of Planning and Finance, and Hygiene and Health Promotion. Additionally, Provincial Health Departments, provincial hospitals, and international development partners took part in the discussions. The workshop proved to be a productive platform for reviewing progress, sharing best practices, and strategizing for future improvements in healthcare quality across the nation.
The workshop was opened by Dr Bounfeng Phoumalaysith, Minister of Health, who underlined the importance of continuous quality improvement, particularly through the implementation of the 5G1S policy. He also acknowledged the recent endorsement of the Healthcare Quality Assessment Tool and its accompanying guidelines by the MOH in January 2025, highlighting their alignment with the Lao context and their role in standardising hospital practices. The workshop centered on the MOH's ongoing commitment to "Good quality health services are provided to Lao people". Participants engaged in discussions and presentations related to the 5G1S policy, infection prevention and control (IPC), healthcare quality assurance, and the newly endorsed Healthcare Quality Assessment Tool. Presentations from MOH departments provided a comprehensive overview of 5G1S implementation in 2024, highlighting both successes and challenges.
Detailed discussions focused on identifying areas for improvement and developing actionable solutions for 2025. Provincial Health Departments (PHDs) and Provincial Hospitals shared valuable insights into their successful 5G1S coordination and quality improvement initiatives. These presentations showcased innovative approaches to committee structures, training activities, monitoring processes, and patient engagement. Participants received updates on relevant policies, quality improvement initiatives, and patient safety measures.
The newly endorsed Healthcare Quality Assessment Tool was thoroughly presented and discussed, providing participants with a valuable resource for evaluating hospital quality. Doctors from the 5G1S committees at Khammouane and Champasak hospitals expressed confidence in the tool, noting that it is clear, practical, and aligned with established guidelines. They emphasized its applicability in hospital quality assessment and highlighted the importance of teamwork in developing effective quality improvement (QI) plans. The workshop also fostered open and collaborative discussions on the advantages, challenges, and solutions for quality improvement. Participants actively engaged in sharing their experiences and perspectives, contributing to a rich exchange of knowledge.
The workshop successfully achieved its objectives, providing a valuable opportunity for enhanced understanding of 5G1S implementation progress, increased knowledge of best practices in healthcare quality improvement, improved coordination and collaboration among stakeholders, and effective dissemination of the Healthcare Quality Assessment Tool.
This progress is evident at Bolikhamxay Hospital, where the 5G1S tool is being implemented step by step across departments. While staff now have a better understanding of the tool, some aspects require budget approval from hospital leadership. Regular medical audits and nursing SOPs have already been integrated using available resources. Efforts are being made to reinforce that 5G1S is part of routine work rather than an additional task. The sustained implementation is supported by the nurses embedded within the hospital through the LAO/035 programme, who are providing ongoing guidance, hands-on practice, and regular follow-ups with the hospital director to ensure long-term success.
The workshop provided clear direction for the future of healthcare quality improvements within Lao PDR. The knowledge gained and connections made during the event will undoubtedly contribute to the continued improvement of healthcare services in Lao PDR.
The Health and nutrition programme is cofinanced by the Government of the Lao PDR and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Health and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.
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