Vietnam expands free drug program and adds HPV vaccine to mandatory schedule

The Vietnamese Ministry of Health issued new regulations to broaden public health support. Starting 10 July 2026, a free‑drug assistance program must be publicly disclosed by hospitals, with transparent distribution based on actual allocations and strict documentation of the source of the medicines. The program requires detailed patient consent and compliance with national treatment guidelines.

In a related move, a new circular effective 1 July 2026 adds human papillomavirus (HPV) disease to the list of conditions covered by the mandatory national immunisation schedule. The HPV vaccine will initially be offered to 12‑year‑old girls in four disadvantaged provinces, targeting roughly 19 000 children, with plans to expand coverage in future phases. Health officials highlighted the importance of preventing cervical cancer and other HPV‑related illnesses.