While most of the marginalized populations ISDS have been working with are living in poverty, ISDS also works to the well-being of general poor. Health care is the first issue that ISDS tackle when it comes to the poor. Starting in 2008 by conducting research looking at impacts of ill-health and health care costs to the poor, the Institute is hoping to bring about evidence that can be used to advocate for universal health insurance for the poor and near-poor population and the improvement of health insurance.
Recognizing that there has been no voice from the poor on health care policy, ISDS is determined in using research findings together with other relevant knowledge to support the poor voice their concerns on health care.