Vietnam’s healthcare system is influenced by its tropical location and the illnesses caused by it, by shifting demographics, and by rapid industrialisation and urbanisation. Healthcare in Vietnam is may not be as modern compared to that in the West and it may not be as nearly developed as Thailand, Singapore or Malaysia, but it is on a par with Cambodia and gradually improving.

Vietnam’s vaccination programme, however, is well established and the country produces many vaccines including those that inoculate against TB, diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus and poliomyelitis etc.

Should you need general medical attention, local surgeons and obstetricians are more than experienced, due to the sheer volume of patients they treat daily. Private hospitals perform at a high level and the best government hospitals have good expertise and technology with acceptable procedural outcomes. In some cases, hygiene and long waits may be an issue in non-private hospitals. Staff may also lack soft skills such as kindness, communication and understanding – all of which may prompt foreigners to seek care from private hospitals and clinics.

To attract foreigners, expats or affluent locals, a number of Vietnamese hospitals have special consultation services. You may call to book an appointment and say that you want an intimate consultation and to avoid extended waiting time. The appointment can be set up outside of business hours and pick-up service may be available. Of course, this will incur higher fees. Hotlines are available for special services at these hospitals.

For information on Healthcare go to What Hospital Should I Go To In Saigon?