An Indian Microfinance Institution Meets Clients' Health-Related Needs
This article describes how Bandhan, an MFI in India introduced integrated health services to its clients. It also looks at the economic and health context that prompted Bandhan to introduce these services, such as the prevalence of infectious diseases, the rise of chronic and acute diseases, and clients' lack of knowledge about health products. Other factors included the government's struggling public health system, high cost of private health care and the unavailability of health insurance in the informal sector. Bandhan used in-depth market research to design an integrated health protection services package to address clients health and financial challenges. The services include:
- Health education on preventing common illnesses, prenatal and neonatal care, and planning ahead to face health expenses;
- Access to affordable, high-quality health products;
- Health loans to cover major expenses.
Finally, the article highlights Bandhan's efforts to accomplish its mission of improving the living conditions of clients and their communities, while also protecting its own sustainability and longevity as an MFI.
