Ministry of Health Clarifies Patient Examination Times and Procedures
The Ministry of Health announced that Decision No. 1313 does not impose a mandatory minimum examination time of 6 minutes per patient, stating that this duration is an estimated benchmark allocated by the physician for direct examination.
Following a review of feedback from voters, the Ministry of Health clarified that Decision No. 1313/QD-BYT does not require each patient to be examined for at least 6 minutes, nor does it impose a waiting obligation on healthcare facilities. It was emphasized that the duration is flexible and can vary depending on the patient's condition.
Voter Petitions and Feedback
Voters in Bac Lieu and Ca Mau provinces expressed that current medical examination procedures sometimes cause disruptions and that the approximately 6-minute duration mandated per patient complicates the process on busy days.
Decision No. 1313 and Actual Processes
The Ministry of Health stated that Decision No. 1313/QD-BYT, dated 2013, aims to improve standards. It was reported that the regulation does not impose a strict lower limit on each patient but rather sets targets for the overall process.
Estimated Duration and Case Flexibility
It was explained that the approximately 6-minute duration is an estimated time allocated by the physician for direct examination and evaluation. While this duration is shorter in simple cases, it can be extended in complex situations.
Responsibilities of Hospital Administrations
The decision grants hospital directors the authority to determine and regulate procedures based on the unit's conditions. Measures such as increasing staff and scheduling appointments are taken during peak periods.
Digital Transformation and Payment Conveniences
It was stated that cashless payment methods are being expanded in healthcare facilities, aiming to reduce waiting times through QR codes and digital wallet applications.