In developing countries, easy-to-treat issues like infection, diarrhea and broken bones can be devastating. Without basic care, these minor setbacks can spiral into major suffering. As a result, parents can’t work, children leave school to join the workforce, the local economy lags and the cycle of poverty continues.
In the places we serve, basic healthcare is never guaranteed, and there are far too many reasons why. Government healthcare systems are overwhelmed and underfunded. Not enough doctors, supplies and medicine. Too many patients who can’t afford treatment. Temporary relief clinics that are, well, temporary. And medical centers that focus solely on specific high-profile diseases.
All of this adds up to a powerful recipe for prolonging poverty.