VNExpress-Dec 2
Vietnam’s health sector is pushing towards zero-fee hospital treatment and regular health checks for all citizens in line with Politburo Resolution No. 72. The Ministry of Health has recently been collecting public and expert opinions to help implement the policy. Deputy Minister Vu Manh Ha noted that in 2024, health insurance coverage in Vietnam reached 94.29% of the population. The network of medical facilities now reaches down to the commune level, while professional capacity at advanced, basic and primary levels has improved significantly. Despite these achievements, major challenges remain. Out-of-pocket spending by citizens accounts for over 40% of total medical costs, remaining high compared with World Health Organization recommendations. The risk of impoverishment due to illness persists, particularly for the poor, vulnerable groups and those living with chronic or long-term conditions. Household financial strain continues to grow unless decisive public-policy interventions are introduced. The total value of medical expenses not covered by the health insurance fund is estimated at around VND24.8 trillion (US$942 million) per year. Health insurance contributions remain low, at 4.5% of the salary or reference base used for calculation. Read more at: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/vietnam-plans-roadmap-to-zero-hospital-fees-and-free-annual-checkups-for-all-citizens-4989315.html
