The Lan Pya Kyel Association (LPK) is local health NGO in Myanmar. Launched in 2004, LPK offers diagnosis, prevention, and treatment services to vulnerable populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSW) in the country under the flagship of PSI Myanmar.
In 2004, the Myanmar government sought external assistance on HIV prevention. PSI, was brought on, aware that HIV interventions needed to target vulnerable populations like FSWs and MSM. In response, PSI launched a Targeted Outreach Program (TOP) and its network of drop-in centers (DICs) with the aim of reaching and supporting the health needs of FSWs and MSM in Myanmar for HIV prevention.
The organization changed its name into Lan Pya Kyel Association operating as separate local entity to receive direct social contracts or strategic purchasing of primary health care services from the private providers and community clinics by the government. Another important expectation is that continued engagement of health and human rights issues through participation of community leaders from local entities.
LPK follows a community-led model to engage FSW and MSM. About 90% all staff are drawn from key populations, with the exception of health specialists such as doctors and lab technicians. This inclusion of and contribution from community members has been vital for strategies and successes of LPK.