Free Surgery Access: Mahosot Hospital, with the Lancang-Mekong Development Foundation and China’s “Mother’s Smile,” launched the “Mother’s Smile – Love in Laos” 2026 project offering free cleft lip and palate reconstruction for underprivileged patients; registration runs until 20 Nov 2026 (hotlines listed). Health Sector Milestone: Laos marked the 61st anniversary of Lao Medical Day (June 18), spotlighting 60+ years of progress and focusing attention on noncommunicable diseases and thalassemia, alongside workforce development and sector achievements. Workforce Reform Plan: The Ministry of Health is preparing its 2026–2030 five-year plan to strengthen its organizational system and build a more professional healthcare civil service, with priorities including disease surveillance, prevention, and improved service delivery. Inclusion & Care Access: A Disability Inclusion Fun Day in Laos promoted equal participation and featured sign language, inclusive activities, and discussions on sexual and reproductive health information and protection from gender-based violence. Regional Health Funding: Laos and China signed agreements for seven Mekong–Lancang Special Fund projects (USD 3.31m total), including support for public health, agriculture, water resources, and poverty reduction. Mekong Health Threat Watch: FAO support is being mobilized across South and Southeast Asia, including Laos, to prepare for a new foot-and-mouth disease virus serotype (FMD SAT1) with early warning, surveillance, and rapid lab diagnosis. Public Health Risk Signals: INTERPOL reports Asia-Pacific scam networks are generating nearly $40 billion annually, with Lao PDR named among countries hosting scam compounds—an indirect but serious health and safety concern for vulnerable victims.