High Out-of-Pocket Healthcare Spending in Vietnam and the Search for Financing Reform
Although health insurance coverage in Vietnam has reached 95.4%, over 40% of medical costs are still paid out of pocket. Experts discussed potential solutions at a meeting in Hanoi.
While health insurance coverage in Vietnam has reached 95.4%, more than 40% of total medical expenses continue to be paid out of pocket by citizens. At a workshop held in Hanoi, experts discussed new financing mechanisms and reforms to alleviate this financial burden.
High Out-of-Pocket Payment Rates in Health Insurance
Health insurance coverage and the benefits provided are increasing in Vietnam. However, out-of-pocket payments for healthcare services remain at high levels.
Accounting for more than 40% of total medical costs, these payments have hovered between 40% and 45% since 2017.
Expert Meeting in Hanoi
This critical issue was brought to the agenda during a discussion organized by the Vietnam Medical Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Hanoi on August 28.
At the meeting, health financing reform was tabled to meet the requirements of universal health insurance in the new era.
Coverage Rate and Increasing Demand for Resources
It was stated that the health insurance coverage rate would reach 95.4% by June 2026. The new Health Insurance Law expands entitlements.
However, population aging, the rise of non-communicable diseases, and increasing costs are elevating the demand for resources.
New Financial Mechanisms and Tax Proposals
In addition to the efficient and transparent management of the fund and the application of technology, new financial mechanisms must be explored to generate additional resources.
International examples regarding the use of excise tax revenues to support healthcare services have been highlighted.
Future Roadmap and Plans
According to the 2027 roadmap, the Ministry of Health plans to increase contribution rates while expanding benefits and initiating pilot programs.
In the 2028-2029 period, diversifying insurance packages and allocating resources to disease prevention services will be explored.