According to Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan, Vietnam’s healthcare system has undergone comprehensive expansion over the past 7 decades, ensuring nationwide coverage. In 2024, health insurance coverage reached 94.2%. The country now boasts an extensive medical network with over 13,000 healthcare facilities at all levels. Additionally, the average life expectancy of Vietnamese citizens has risen to 74.5 years, placing Vietnam among nations with the highest life expectancy in the region.

In his remarks at the meeting, President Cuong noted that the extensive medical network has enabled people, from urban centers to remote and mountainous areas, to access healthcare services. Coupled with immunisation programmes and disease prevention efforts, it has significantly improved public health and contributed to an increase in life expectancy. The leader added that the sector has actively embraced international integration and mastered modern medical technologies. Leading hospitals across the country have successfully performed organ transplants and treated critical illnesses with cutting-edge medical techniques, positioning Vietnam as a regional brightspot in health care. Cuong particularly commended the dedication of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, recognising them as frontline warriors who made significant contributions to protecting public health.

Stressing that the progress is not only a sectoral achievement but also a source of national pride, he expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the Party and the State for the invaluable contributions and silent sacrifice of Vietnam’s medical professionals.

The President urged the sector to further strengthen universal healthcare access, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their location, receive essential medical services. He also called for continued investments in specialised health care, the development of central and provincial hospitals, and mastery of advanced medical technologies to elevate Vietnam’s medical standards to international levels.

Additionally, he stressed the need for accelerating digital transformation in the field, the application of information technology in healthcare management and service delivery, and the expansion of telemedicine models to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve accessibility for citizens.

There is a need to continue focusing on building a high-quality healthcare workforce, with particular attention to improving training quality and nurturing the professional and ethical standards of doctors and medical staff, Cuong stressed, adding that it is essential to ensure that the healthcare workforce is not only highly skilled but also committed to their responsibilities, and compassionate toward patients.

He urged the issuance of appropriate policies to attract and retain medical staff, and honour their dedication and sacrifice, especially those working in remote areas where there are still many challenges and shortages.

The President also highlighted the importance of enhancing the capacity of preventive healthcare and disease control, proactively responding to emerging diseases, and ensuring public health under all circumstances.

Furthermore, there should be a stronger push for medical research, the application of modern technology, and the close combination between modern and traditional medicines. Strengthening international exchanges and cooperation is also vital to absorb advanced achievements, better meet the demands for healthcare services, and improve the competitiveness of Vietnam’s healthcare system.

He expressed his hope that each health worker will always be a shining example of continuous learning to improve professional skills, and nurturing and maintaining political qualities and professional ethics. They should continue to build upon their achievements and strive to complete their noble mission, truly becoming skilled doctors to better take care of, protect, and improve the health of the people in the new situation.

On this occasion, the State leader awarded the People's Doctor title to 46 outstanding health workers.

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