Archive · 24 May 2025
Urgent Action Needed to Bridge Medical Oxygen Access Gap in SE Asia
Imagine oxygen as a medicine everyone needs to breathe, but many people, especially in poorer countries, can't get it.
This is a big problem because it can save lives!
The article talks about how many hospitals don't have the equipment needed to provide oxygen.
To fix this, we need more money, trained workers, and clever solutions like solar-powered oxygen machines.
Everyone must work together to make sure everyone can get the oxygen they need, like a basic right.
The goal is to ensure life-saving medical oxygen is available everywhere, not just during emergencies, but all the time!
Five billion people globally lack access to safe and affordable medical oxygen.
South Asia and East Asia/Pacific have the highest unmet need for medical oxygen.
Shortage of equipment, financial burdens, and lack of trained professionals are major obstacles.
Solar-powered oxygen systems and local manufacturing are key solutions for LMICs.
Sustained investments, policy commitments, and multi-stakeholder approach are necessary to close the gap.
- Who
- Governments, global health agencies, industry, civil society, and WHO are involved.
- What
- Addressing the global shortage and improving access to medical oxygen.
- When
- The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the issue; ongoing efforts are needed.
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on South Asia and East Asia/Pacific.
- Why
- To save lives and ensure equitable healthcare access.
- People lacking oxygen access
- 5 billion globally
- Regions with highest gap
- South Asia, East Asia/Pacific
- Hospital Pulse Oximeter Access in LMICs
- 54%
- Hospital Oxygen Access in LMICs
- 58%
- Funding needed
- $6.8 billion globally
- South Asia Funding needed
- $2.6 billion