Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan announced that from 2026 to 2030, all Vietnamese citizens will receive free annual health check-ups, with an estimated cost of 25 trillion VND (approximately 1 billion USD) per year for a population of 100 million.

This information was shared during the regular April government press conference.

“The directive from General Secretary To Lam to move toward free healthcare for the people is not only a long-term strategic vision but also a concrete goal the entire health sector is committed to realizing. It is a policy that resonates deeply with millions of citizens,” said Deputy Minister Thuan.

Following General Secretary To Lam’s guidance, the Ministry of Health aims for 90% of the population to have full access to medical services during 2026-2030. These services include disease prevention, age-appropriate vaccinations, reproductive health, mental health support, and school health care, all starting at the grassroots level.

"All citizens will be entitled to at least one annual health check-up. With 100 million people and an estimated cost of 250,000 VND (about 10 USD) per check-up, we anticipate an annual budget of 25 trillion VND," he noted.

Deputy Minister Thuan also outlined the roadmap for achieving free healthcare, as directed by General Secretary To Lam.

By 2045, Vietnam’s healthcare system is expected to fully meet the needs of protecting, caring for, and improving public health while reducing financial burdens. The plan includes eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for services covered by health insurance and placing Vietnam among the world’s top nations in terms of social security in healthcare.

Citizens will have electronic health records for lifelong health management. Elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and vulnerable groups will receive special social care. Sustainable financing for healthcare services will also be ensured.

The strategy targets 100% health insurance coverage nationwide, expanded health insurance benefits, and gradual inclusion of preventive care, early screening, diagnosis, and early-stage treatment under insurance coverage. It also aims to reduce the out-of-pocket share of total health spending to below 20% and the co-payment rate for insured services to under 10%.

According to Deputy Minister Thuan, the Ministry of Health is currently drafting a resolution for submission to higher authorities. The proposal focuses on transformative healthcare development to meet national growth demands in the new era and recommends bold steps toward making healthcare free for all citizens.

The Vinh