Ministry of Health Directive on Free Periodic Health Checks

The Ministry of Health has sent a new document to local authorities aiming to resolve difficulties encountered in the organization and implementation of the nationwide free periodic health check program.

Difficulties in the Implementation Process

Based on preliminary reports from local authorities, various difficulties related to the list of techniques and screening procedures have been identified.

Obstacles in acquiring old test results and data integration problems between health insurance and routine check-ups also stand out.

Furthermore, deficiencies such as infrastructure pressure and a shortage of specialist doctors at the local level had been previously determined.

Standards and Circular Compliance

In order to guarantee citizens' rights and standardize procedures, the Ministry of Health has made a new emphasis.

It is stated that the content and documentation of routine health check-ups must comply with Circular No. 25/2026/TT-BYT.

The prescription of paraclinical techniques for individuals aged six and older depends entirely on the professional evaluation of doctors.

Measures to Prevent Waste

To prevent waste for both the public and the budget, the ministry requests that clinical doctors use results from the previous year.

Existing paraclinical and diagnostic imaging results from the previous year will be proactively sought and utilized by doctors.

If these results are still professionally valid, patients will strictly not be asked to retake tests.

Local-Level Regulations

Regarding the organizational structure at the local level, paraclinical equipment has been made non-mandatory for commune or ward health stations.

To address the shortage of specialist doctors, local Health Departments have been granted the authority to reinforce stations with doctors from higher levels.

Home visits or the assignment of special mobile health teams are permitted for the elderly, severely disabled, or bedridden individuals.