Vietnam moves to provide free annual health checkups for citizens
VOV.VN - Vietnam will gradually provide its citizens with free annual health checkups from 2026 to 2030, toward the ultimate goal of universal free health care by 2045, said Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan at a Government press briefing in Hanoi on May 6.
Thuan welcomed Party General Secretary To Lam’s recent idea on free health checkups, saying “this is not only a long-term strategic direction but also a policy that touches the hearts of millions of people and fulfils their long-held hopes.”
According to the health professional, this initiative aims to detect diseases early, reduce treatment costs, and improve public health and productivity.
He cited calculations, noting if 100% of the population will receive free annual health checkups, cost is estimated at VND25,000 billion per year (equivalent to about US$1 billion).
By 2030, 90% of citizens are expected to have full access to preventive healthcare, immunization, reproductive and mental health services.
The government plans to digitally manage each citizen's lifetime health record via electronic health records.
In addition, he said, a new health insurance law will be considered for 2030–2035 to help remove out-of-pocket costs completely.
By 2045, no Vietnamese citizen should have to pay extra when using services covered by health insurance that will essentially achieve the goal of free healthcare for all, aligning Vietnam with top global welfare states.
Thuan revealed that that the Ministry of Health is drafting a resolution for the Politburo focused on breakthroughs in public health care. This resolution will propose comprehensive solutions to develop the health sector, with the ultimate goal of gradually realising universal free medical care for all Vietnamese citizens.
During his April 8 meeting with police officers supporting the southern battlefield during the resistance war against American imperialism, Party General Secretary To Lam affirmed that the Party would prioritize the development of the health sector and strengthen public healthcare services, aiming toward the goal of universal free health care.
Party leader To Lam advocates for free medical treatment for all
VOV.VN - Party General Secretary To Lam, during a meeting in Hanoi on April 8 underscored the importance of developing the healthcare sector and improving public health, toward the ultimate goal of providing free medical treatment for all citizens.
