Improving Access to Healthcare in Remote Communities

“I had some complications during my pregnancy with my first child, but when I became pregnant a second time, I was referred to attend regular healthcare sessions. I learned so much and went on to safely deliver my son,” says Naw Ka Dar Lay, a mother who benefitted from a referral program established by Save the Children. “I now know how important it is for our children that we, as mothers, get professional support, and I will encourage my neighbors and other mothers to go to the hospital for that.”

This situation isn’t unique to rural areas in Myanmar. Inequality in access to essential healthcare is a global challenge and is one that needs a coordinated effort by countless organizations and individuals to create sustainable change. This, naturally, includes Takeda, and for many decades we have pursued ways to contribute to the health care needs of those beyond our immediate reach. We do this through strong collaborations that ultimately impact the lives of millions.

One such partnership, a 5-year project launched in 2016 with Save the Children as a part of our Global CSR Program, was set up to improve access to maternal and newborn healthcare for ethnic minorities in Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. By supporting local health workers and enhancing community engagement in remote areas, the program is providing medical assistance in cases of maternal and newborn emergencies in over 100 villages across the region in Myanmar.

As with all of our Global CSR programs, this partnership was chosen by our employees who each year have the opportunity to learn about a wide variety of valuable health care projects, before casting their votes. Based on these, we enter into long term collaborations with specialists on the ground to deliver essential services.

As well as improving health care for the communities involved, these projects enable a number of Takeda employees from around the world to visit the program sites and learn first-hand about the issues faced there. On returning, employees will share their experiences with their colleagues, inspiring them to engage in future CSR initiatives.

Such partnerships have proven to have had a significant impact on community health. By supporting mothers and their newborn children and empowering the community, we can secure better health for not only the current generation, but also a brighter future for the next.