Essential Guide to the Health System in Vietnam

The healthcare system in Vietnam is a mix of public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Health and is available to all citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Vietnam, however, it is not commonly used by foreigners. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals. Public hospitals in Vietnam are often overcrowded and lack the latest medical technology.

Vietnam's Public Healthcare System

Vietnam's public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Health and is available to all citizens. The public healthcare system is free for citizens, however, foreigners are required to pay a fee for services. The cost of public healthcare is generally lower than private healthcare, however, the quality of care is not as high. Public hospitals are not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals.

Vietnam's Private Healthcare System

Vietnam's private healthcare system is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private hospitals in Vietnam are generally more expensive than public hospitals, however, the quality of care is higher. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is higher than public hospitals. Private hospitals in Vietnam are often equipped with the latest medical technology and have shorter wait times than public hospitals.

Vietnam's Top Hospitals

Vietnam has several top hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals in Vietnam include:

• Cho Ray Hospital (public, Ho Chi Minh City)
• Hanoi French Hospital (private, Hanoi)
• Vinmec International Hospital (private, Hanoi)
• FV Hospital (private, Ho Chi Minh City)
• National Hospital of Pediatrics (public, Hanoi)
• Viet Duc Hospital (public, Hanoi)

Health Insurance Companies in Vietnam

The most popular private health insurers in Vietnam are Bao Viet, FWD, and Prudential. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Vietnam: How to Navigate the Health System

"In Vietnam, most medication can be purchased just by going to the pharmacy, no doctor visit needed. Cheap, high quality, and convenient. Dental care was extremely high quality and very cheap. Basic medical care was also very high quality and very good prices. Specialist care was difficult because of language barriers," commented one expat living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

"Medical services in Vietnam are generally of a high standard, with a wide range of modern facilities and equipment available. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Many of the larger cities have international hospitals that offer a range of treatments and services, including specialist care. In addition, there are a number of private clinics and medical centers that provide quality care at an affordable price. Vietnam also has a number of traditional medicine practitioners, such as herbalists and acupuncturists, who offer alternative treatments," mentioned one expat living in Vietnam.

"I don't have experience with a hospital stay, so I cannot give an opinion on that topic," commented one expat living in Da Nang, Vietnam.

"If you have a serious issue, travel to Bangkok or, Singapore for medical care. In Da Nang, there is a woman at the Pasteur Clinic who can treat women's issues but, I would go to BKK for more urgent/serious issues," mentioned one expat living in Vietnam.

"Healthcare services in Vietnam are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a good standard. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Vietnam often use the public healthcare system, as it is generally more affordable than private healthcare. However, some expats opt to use private healthcare due to the higher quality of care and services offered," said an expat in Vietnam.