Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang, Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Training under the Ministry of Health made the statement at a recent inauguration of the US-standard Animal Lab invested by S.I.S Can Tho International General Hospital.

Located on the hospital’s campus, the Animal Lab conducts trials on animals using specialized medical devices such as stents and coils. These devices are developed by the hospital’s doctors and engineers in collaboration with experts from the US, through joint research, production, and technology transfer.

According to Dr. Tran Chi Cuong, Director of S.I.S Can Tho International General Hospital, this is among the first preclinical research centers in Southeast Asia and Asia at large. Its operation affirms that Vietnam can now actively participate in global medical research, moving beyond merely sharing experience. As the development of new drugs and equipment increasingly demands rigorous research, such as controlled trials, single-arm studies, and long-term investigations, the Preclinical Research Center will help reduce risks to human subjects by addressing early-stage testing needs.

“This center belongs to all of us, not to any single organization or individual,” said Dr. Cuong. “It is open to all domestic and international collaborators and provides services on a par with global standards. We are also prepared to offer zero-cost support to university research centers and medical scientists facing financial barriers, so that no promising idea or product is held back by funding limitations. Together, we can pursue the shared goal of improving human health.”

The Animal Lab also plays a vital role in enhancing practical skills and reducing risks in clinical procedures, thereby contributing to a more capable generation of interventional physicians, especially important as the incidence of stroke continues to rise and affect younger populations.

On this occasion, S.I.S Can Tho General Hospital also held a scientific workshop and continuing medical education program themed “Advances in Stroke Diagnosis and Treatment: From Theory to Practice.”

The event gathered around 300 domestic and international doctors and experts in neurology, emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and neuro intervention, featuring 16 specialized sessions and 65 scientific presentations.

After two days attending the workshop and witnessing the official launch of the Animal Lab, Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang affirmed that S.I.S Can Tho is one of Vietnam’s leading centers for stroke and cardiovascular care, equipped with some of the country’s most advanced technology.

The hospital also contributes to strengthening the national healthcare workforce through a variety of short- and long-term training programs.

Dr. Quang further emphasized that the inauguration of the Preclinical Research Center signifies the implementation of key Party resolutions, such as Resolution 57 on breakthroughs in science and technology, Resolution 59 on engaging both domestic and international scientists, and Resolution 68 on the contribution of the private sector to national development, especially in healthcare.

Since its founding over six years ago, S.I.S Can Tho has treated and provided emergency care to nearly 1.3 million patients, increasing the “golden hour” stroke treatment rate from 13% in 2019 to 21% in 2025.

The hospital has also received the Diamond Award from the World Stroke Organization ten times and is a pioneer in applying advanced technology in neurological treatment and training in the Mekong Delta.

The launch of the Preclinical Research Center (Animal Lab) marks a new milestone in neurovascular intervention training in Vietnam, and opens a new direction in medical research and practical training, not only in the Mekong Delta but across the country.

Phu Tho General Hospital wins Diamond Status from World Stroke Organisation

The General Hospital of northern Phu Tho province has become one of the seven Vietnamese establishments to win the Diamond Status from the World Stroke Organisation (WSO), the highest award for quality in emergency care and stroke treatment worldwide.