Provisions of Health Services for Microfinance Clients: Analysis of Evidence from India

  • Date Posted: October 11, 2010
  • Authors: Somen Saha
  • Organizations/Projects: Indian Institute of Public Health
  • Document Types: Evidence or Research
  • Donor Type: Non-US Government Agency

There is a strong business rationale for integrating health services into microfinance program. Studies have shown that illness and related expenditures are the leading cause for micro-business failures and loan default. This paper is an attempt to understand the health programs and health needs offered by MFIs in India, and build the case for wider integration of health services into microfinance programs.