Vietnam’s Health Minister Đào Hồng Lan has affirmed that the newly issued Resolution 72 by the Politburo marks a major milestone in healthcare reform, with the “free hospital fees” policy drawing strong public attention.
Free Hospital Fees Linked to Universal Health Insurance
Speaking to the press on September 16, Minister Đào Hồng Lan emphasized that by 2030, basic healthcare costs will be waived nationwide through the universal health insurance (UHI) system.
“This is a deeply humane policy, reflecting the superiority of our system, easing financial burdens, and ensuring early disease detection,” Lan said.
The free healthcare scheme will be rolled out in stages, with the state and insurance funds covering essential medical expenses—especially for vulnerable groups, the poor, and socially disadvantaged citizens. Non-essential, premium medical services will still require partial out-of-pocket payment, encouraging responsible and efficient use of resources.
The minister stressed:
“This policy must be closely tied to universal health insurance coverage, where everyone participates in risk-sharing—those with better means support the less fortunate, and the healthy help care for the sick.”
Key Benefits for Citizens
From 2026, citizens will be entitled to free annual check-ups and screenings, supported by an electronic health record system tracking health throughout the life cycle—from prenatal to elderly care.
By 2030, all citizens will receive free basic medical treatment and services within the health insurance framework, reducing out-of-pocket costs and improving early detection.
Government funds and the Health Insurance Fund will also prioritize preventive care, chronic disease management, and early treatment to cut late-stage treatment costs and mortality rates.
Six Strategic Solutions to Realize the Policy
Minister Lan outlined six main solutions to implement Resolution 72:
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Reform health sector governance with transparency, accountability, and streamlined administration.
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Complete legal frameworks, including submitting key resolutions to the National Assembly in October 2025.
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Launch a Government action program for synchronized implementation nationwide.
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Introduce a Ministry of Health action plan to roll out crucial healthcare projects in coordination with ministries and localities.
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Accelerate digital transformation with nationwide electronic medical records, health ID systems, and integrated national databases.
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Strengthen public communication to ensure citizens understand, support, and participate in the policy’s success.
Towards Fair, Equal, and Sustainable Healthcare
Lan emphasized that the goal is not “absolute free healthcare,” but minimizing co-payments while maximizing universal access:
“Our aim is to build a fair, equal, and sustainable healthcare system where no one is left behind,” she said.
The Minister concluded with optimism:
“With collective determination, we will not only increase life expectancy and expand universal health insurance, but also ensure that these goals become reality—so our people can live longer, healthier, and happier lives.”
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Source: Vietnam Insider