VPHCAP

The Global Health Project (GHP) in Lao PDR, supported by Chiang Mai University, VPHCAP, PODD Centre, the Department of Livestock Development of Thailand, and the Department of Livestock and Fisheries of Lao PDR, conducted a Local Evaluation Meeting in Luang Prabang from 22–27 September 2024. The workshop brought together central, provincial, district, and community-level representatives to evaluate the use of the Participatory One Health Disease Detection (PODD / OHTK) system for animal disease surveillance. More than 100 participants, including officials and volunteer veterinarians from five provinces and ten districts, joined the event to share lessons learned, present achievements, and strengthen cross-border collaboration.

The evaluation confirmed that the PODD/OHTK system significantly improved timeliness of disease detection and reporting, strengthened collaboration across multiple levels, and increased confidence among livestock owners. Over 400 village volunteer veterinarians (VVVs) were trained, and more than 1,400 case reports were submitted through the system during the project period. The workshop also highlighted challenges such as inconsistent reporting, internet connectivity issues, and limited technical capacity among some volunteers.

Participants agreed on key next steps:

Ensure sustainability of the digital reporting system through stable funding and ongoing training.
Expand coverage to additional districts and villages.
Strengthen technical support and policy backing at provincial and central levels.
Promote knowledge-sharing and regular follow-up with volunteers to maintain engagement.

The meeting concluded with recognition of Best and Good Practice Districts, field visits to surveillance sites in Luang Prabang, and a strong commitment from Lao PDR and Thailand to continue cross-border collaboration for improved animal health surveillance.

Local Evaluation Meeting Report of the Global Health Project in Lao PDR