In Katot village, a remote indigenous community in Stung Treng province, access to healthcare was once a long and difficult journey. Today, that reality is changing.

For Ms. Veng Tivy, a pregnant mother who are expecting her second child, the difference is life-changing.

“When I had my first child, there was no health post in the village,” she recalled. “I had to travel far to the Sesan Health Center. It was difficult, especially during pregnancy.”

Now, with a health post built in her own village, things are very different. “It is much more convenient, especially for elderly people. If they feel unwell, they can come here easily,” she said.

Her experience during her second pregnancy highlights the transformation. “It was not difficult at all this time. The health post is close to my home, and there are medical staff on duty. I can come regularly for check-ups, which was not possible before.”

The Katot Community Health Post began operating on July 1, 2025, bringing essential healthcare services closer to the community. According to midwife Ms. Mut Sokhann, the facility provides outpatient care for adults and children, antenatal services, family planning, and health education.

“Since opening, we receive around 4 to 5 patients on some days, and up to 7 or 8 on others,” she said. “On average, about 40 to 50 patients come to get healthcare service each month. Most are women and children.”

Common cases include flu, minor injuries, and digestive illnesses, with flu and stomach-related conditions being the most frequent. All services, including consultations and medicines, are provided free of charge—an important factor for families with limited income.

Before the health post was established, residents had to travel approximately 12 kilometers to reach Sesan Health Center. For pregnant women, this meant long and often challenging trips every month for check-ups. Even for minor illnesses, villagers had to travel far just to buy medicine.

“Now, people are very happy,” Ms. Sokhann said. “They feel more secure knowing healthcare is available in their own village.”

The health post is staffed by four healthcare workers—three midwives and one nurse—and operates seven days a week, with staff also on duty at night.

“I would like to thank the Royal Government for providing this health post through the LASED III project,” Ms. Sokhann said. “It has made a real difference for our community.”

Katot village, located about 30 kilometers southeast of Stung Treng town, is home to 123 families, with nearly half belonging to the indigenous Brao ethnic group. For these families, access to nearby healthcare is more than a convenience—it is a foundation for healthier, more secure lives.