Vietnam Ministry of Health proposes expanded health insurance coverage

The Vietnam Ministry of Health is proposing significant reforms to the Health Insurance (BHYT) system, focusing on expanding coverage to include preventive care and early diagnosis. A key proposal involves the fund covering screening and early diagnosis for seven types of cancer—cervical, breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver—as well as Hepatitis B and C. This shift aims to move from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, potentially reducing long-term costs associated with late-stage disease management.

The proposal includes a roadmap for implementation: Hepatitis B and C screening integrated into periodic check-ups by July 2027, followed by pilot cervical cancer screening in 2028, and broader cancer screenings by 2030. Additionally, the Ministry suggests expanding coverage for hypertension, diabetes, and periodic health examinations.

To balance the fund, the Ministry also proposes adjusting contribution rates. Monthly insurance premiums are projected to rise from 4.5% of the base salary to 5.1% in July 2027, with further increases to 5.4% and 6% planned by 2030. To mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations, the draft suggests increasing state support for specific groups, such as students, near-poor households, and people with disabilities, with some receiving up to 100% coverage of their premiums.