The Vietnamese government is working towards providing free medical examination and treatment for all citizens. The healthcare sector has set a strategic plan for 2026-2030 and 2031-2035 to achieve this goal. The plan aims to ensure that every individual undergoes a regular health check-up at least once a year and eliminates hospital fees for all citizens. This goal was emphasized by Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan, who chairs the National Medical Council, at a recent workshop on improving patient rights in diagnosis and treatment.
Vietnam has made significant progress in healthcare, with 94% of the population participating in health insurance, which has reduced the medical cost burden for patients. However, there are still shortcomings in patient rights, including overburdened medical facilities, long wait times, and hidden costs. The list of covered drugs, supplies, and techniques under health insurance needs to be updated to keep pace with advancing medical technology.
The government’s goal is to move towards universal access to free healthcare services, with a focus on preventive care and early detection of serious diseases. To achieve this, the health sector is preparing to overhaul the Law on Health Insurance, with a strong focus on provisions related to medical examination and treatment. The ultimate aim is to ensure free access to medical services for all citizens.
Deputy Minister Tran Van Thuan emphasized that this is a long-term journey that requires consistent and deliberate progress. He noted that the healthcare system needs to transform from treating illness to protecting health, and from passive care to proactive prevention. The government’s goal is to advance the genuine rights of patients and build a healthcare system that truly serves the people.
The workshop on improving patient rights in diagnosis and treatment highlighted the need for coordinated implementation of key initiatives to achieve the government’s healthcare goals. The health sector is working to address the shortcomings in patient rights and ensure that every citizen receives quality healthcare services. With the strategic plan in place, Vietnam is taking significant steps towards achieving universal access to free healthcare services.