Bolivia: World Bank soft loan to improve health services in
poor communities
Contacts:
In Washington: Gabriela Aguilar (202) 473-6768
gaguilar2@worldbank.org
In La Paz: Rafael Archondo: (591-2) 215-3347
rarchondo@worldbank.org

WASHINGTON, January 24, 2008 — The World Bank’s Board of Directors today approved a US $18.5 million, interest-free credit by the International
Development Association (IDA) loan to increase coverage and quality of health services that will improve the quality of life of the population, specifically
mothers and children.

The project will contribute to involve and empower communities so that they can participate in the decision making process on health services and health
outcomes.

The Expanding Access to Reduce Health Inequities Project Adaptable Lending Program (APL) III credit is the last phase of a 12-year
Health Sector Reform program. As a medium-term objective, this APL series pursues reducing the infant and maternal mortality rates by one-third.

"It is the third loan of a series, and has been triggered by results on the ground”, said David Tuchschneider, World Bank resident representative in
Bolivia. “The project will also reduce chronic malnutrition among children under 2 years and increase health insurance coverage in poor areas. It will
upgrade the National Information System so that it will be integrated with Bolivia’s new health insurance program”, he added.

For instance, the infant mortality rate has decreased from 67 in 1998 to 52 in 2006 and the under five mortality rate decreased from 92 in 1998 to 72 in
2006.

The loan will reduce occurrence of critical risk factors affecting maternal and infant health in Bolivia’s most disadvantage communities. This third
phase will focus firstly nation-wide and secondly it will target 166 of the most vulnerable municipalities and 6 peri-urban areas surrounding three
cities.

This phase will also strengthen national, regional and local capacities to respond to health needs; build human resource capacities and physical
infrastructure including upgrading or purchasing equipment; and support the government’s implementation of Su Salud health insurance program,
among other actions.


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For more information on theExpanding Access to Reduce Health Inequities Project Adaptable Lending Program (APL) IIIvisit:
http://web.worldbank.org/external/projects/main?pagePK=64283627&piPK=73230&theSitePK=40941&menuPK=228424&Projectid=P101206


For more information about the work of the World Bank in Bolivia, please visit: http://www.worldbank.org.bo