Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Vietnam

Vietnam, a Southeast Asian country known for its rich culture and rapid economic growth, operates a universal healthcare system supplemented by a growing private sector. With a population of approximately 100 million, Vietnam ensures healthcare access through public and private providers, though service quality varies.

For expats and residents, understanding Vietnam’s healthcare system is crucial. While public healthcare is affordable and widely available, private healthcare provides faster and higher-quality medical services.

Vietnam’s Healthcare System: Public and Private Providers

Primary Care

• Community health stations and general practitioners

Secondary Care

• District and provincial hospitals

Tertiary Care

• Central hospitals and specialized medical centers

Structure of the Healthcare System in Vietnam

Public Healthcare

Vietnam’s public healthcare system is funded through national health insurance contributions and government subsidies. Public hospitals and clinics provide medical care to the majority of the population.

Coverage and Accessibility

Public healthcare services include:

• General practitioner consultations
• Specialist visits (with referrals)
• Hospitalization and emergency care
• Maternity and pediatric services
• Vaccination programs
• Limited dental and mental health services
• Prescription medications (with co-payments)

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How to Register for Health Insurance in Vietnam

All employees contribute to Vietnam’s national health insurance scheme through payroll deductions. Expats can obtain public health insurance through their employer or purchase private insurance for additional coverage.

Government-Run Healthcare Programs

Vietnam provides subsidized healthcare services for low-income individuals, children, the elderly, and military personnel. Emergency care is available to all, but payment may be required.

Private Healthcare

Private healthcare is widely used for faster and higher-quality treatments. Many expats and affluent residents opt for private medical services, which offer English-speaking doctors and modern facilities.

Pharmacy Healthcare

Pharmacies (nhà thuốc) are widely available, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some medications may require a doctor’s prescription.

Children’s Healthcare in Vietnam

Pediatric care is available through public hospitals and private clinics and includes:

• Routine check-ups
• Vaccinations (following national immunization guidelines)
• Treatment for childhood illnesses

Vietnamese Dentists

Public dental care is limited to basic procedures. Most residents choose private dental care for comprehensive treatment and better quality services.

Mental Healthcare in Vietnam

Mental health services are available in public hospitals, but wait times can be long. Private psychiatric and psychological care is preferred for better accessibility.

Alternative Healthcare in Vietnam

Alternative medicine, including traditional Vietnamese medicine and acupuncture, is widely practiced and often integrated into healthcare treatments.

Emergency Healthcare

Emergency care is available at both public and private hospitals. Private facilities offer faster service but may require upfront payments.

What to Do in an Emergency

For emergencies, dial 115 for an ambulance or seek the nearest hospital.

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Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Vietnam

Who is Covered Under Public Healthcare in Vietnam?

All legal residents and employees are covered under Vietnam’s national health insurance program.

Waiting Times and Availability of Services in Vietnam

Public healthcare facilities often have long wait times. Private healthcare provides quicker access to services and specialists.

Geographic Disparities in Healthcare Access in Vietnam

Urban areas have modern hospitals and clinics, while rural regions may lack adequate healthcare infrastructure and medical specialists.

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Access and Coverage for Private Healthcare in Vietnam

Private Insurance Options

Many expats and residents purchase private health insurance to cover additional services and access better-quality care.

Popular Insurance Networks and Hospitals

Private hospitals such as:

• FV Hospital
• Vinmec International Hospital
• Columbia Asia

These hospitals offer high-quality care with English-speaking medical staff.

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Quality of Healthcare in Vietnam

Standards and Regulations in Vietnam

The Ministry of Health oversees healthcare regulations, ensuring compliance with national and international medical standards.

Comparison of Public vs. Private Healthcare Quality in Vietnam

While public healthcare is affordable, private healthcare provides faster service, modern facilities, and higher standards of care.

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Out-of-pocket Expenditure

regional comparison

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Useful Resources

• GlobalPassport Vietnam webpage: https://www.globalpassport.ai/destinations/vietnam
• Ministry of Health of Vietnam: https://www.moh.gov.vn/
• Vietnam Social Security: https://vss.gov.vn/
• Emergency Services in Vietnam: Dial 115 for urgent medical assistance

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