International Issues: microfinance in neurologic disorders: a promising role.

Abstract

Microfinance is a popular intervention for poverty, but the intersection between microfinance and neurologic disorders in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) has yet to be fully explored. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) provide small loans to impoverished clients who may otherwise not have access to loans, with which they can start their own enterprises.¹ To date, MFI clients are usually women, and loans are often given with repayments guaranteed by groups rather than individuals.² Microfinance programs are offered by both nonprofit and for-profit organizations.² Although the actual impact of microfinance on poverty can be controversial, microfinance has generated enthusiasm among many philanthropists and private citizens, especially in higher income settings, as a putative “silver bullet for alleviating poverty.”²