Vietnam Health Ministry launches new free drug support regulation

The Ministry of Health issued Circular 16/2026, effective 10 July 2026, replacing Circular 31/2018. The new rule creates a single, fully free drug support program and eliminates partial‑subsidy schemes.

Under the regulation, pharmaceutical companies and medical facilities must sign written agreements to provide free medicines that are legally marketed in Vietnam. The drugs must be prescribed according to approved guidelines, must not be linked to any commercial condition, and the health‑insurance fund is prohibited from reimbursing these free items to avoid duplicate payments. Facilities are required to disclose the program, adopt internal procedures, and counsel patients on benefits, risks, and any additional costs. Patients must voluntarily register and sign a participation form; if they discontinue treatment they must return any unused medication.