In socialist Vietnam, the healthcare insurance system comprises a mandatory Universal Health Insurance scheme (VSS) and a voluntary insurance program. The voluntary insurance serves as a complement to the mandatory scheme and differs from insurance models in countries like Japan.
The current enrollment rate for the compulsory universal insurance is just under 70%, and the government is working towards achieving the unique goal among ASEAN countries of establishing complete national universal health coverage.
Under the compulsory scheme, enrolled workers have their eligible medical expenses paid from the Health Insurance Fund. This mandatory coverage extends beyond corporate employees to include children, the elderly, ethnic minorities, and those working in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, among other socially vulnerable groups.
Medical expenses incurred at hospitals are covered by insurance at 60% to 100%, depending on the treatment received. Patients are responsible for the remaining 20% to 40% of the costs, which can be covered by voluntary insurance.
Unlike Japan, Vietnam does not have a free-access healthcare system. Initially, patients must seek treatment at the hospital designated on their health insurance card. The system of mixed billing, prohibited in Japan, is common in Vietnam, and the remuneration system for medical services is not standardized.
It's worth noting that while private healthcare tends to be more expensive, there is a perception (?) that it offers higher quality, leading the affluent to opt for private or overseas medical institutions. Public hospitals, however, enjoy various forms of preferential treatment from the authorities. In addition to being state civil servants, public hospital doctors receive various benefits.
The current enrollment rate for the compulsory universal insurance is just under 70%, and the government is working towards achieving the unique goal among ASEAN countries of establishing complete national universal health coverage.
Under the compulsory scheme, enrolled workers have their eligible medical expenses paid from the Health Insurance Fund. This mandatory coverage extends beyond corporate employees to include children, the elderly, ethnic minorities, and those working in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, among other socially vulnerable groups.
Medical expenses incurred at hospitals are covered by insurance at 60% to 100%, depending on the treatment received. Patients are responsible for the remaining 20% to 40% of the costs, which can be covered by voluntary insurance.
Unlike Japan, Vietnam does not have a free-access healthcare system. Initially, patients must seek treatment at the hospital designated on their health insurance card. The system of mixed billing, prohibited in Japan, is common in Vietnam, and the remuneration system for medical services is not standardized.
It's worth noting that while private healthcare tends to be more expensive, there is a perception (?) that it offers higher quality, leading the affluent to opt for private or overseas medical institutions. Public hospitals, however, enjoy various forms of preferential treatment from the authorities. In addition to being state civil servants, public hospital doctors receive various benefits.
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