Health Care in Ha Long

The healthcare system in Ha Long is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system, known as the Vietnam Social Security (VSS), is primarily used by locals, while private hospitals are often preferred by foreigners and expats.

Vietnam's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Vietnam, the Vietnam Social Security (VSS), is primarily used by locals. While foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system, it is not commonly recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to the language barrier and the difference in medical standards compared to Western countries. Public hospitals in Ha Long are often crowded and the facilities may not be as modern as those in private hospitals. On the other hand, private hospitals in Ha Long are often preferred by expats and digital nomads due to the higher standard of care, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff. It is common for expats to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Ha Long

There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Ha Long for expats:

• Vinmec International Hospital - a private hospital located in Ha Long city.
• Quang Ninh General Hospital - a public hospital located in Ha Long city.
• Ha Long International Hospital - a private hospital specializing in a wide range of medical services.

In case of specialized medical care or surgeries, expats often travel to Hanoi, which is approximately 3.5 hours by car from Ha Long.

Emergency Services in Ha Long

Emergency services are available in Ha Long. The emergency number in Vietnam is 115. While the response time of ambulances can vary, it is generally recommended to take a taxi or private vehicle to the hospital in case of an emergency due to potential delays.

Health Insurance Companies in Ha Long

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Ha Long, including Bao Viet Insurance, Prudential Vietnam, and Manulife. These companies offer a range of health insurance products suitable for both locals and expats. However, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers due to the comprehensive coverage they offer, which often includes medical evacuation and repatriation services.