Vietnam proposes health insurance coverage and prescription updates

The Vietnamese Ministry of Health is proposing several updates to health insurance (BHYT) policies and medical prescription regulations to improve patient care and reduce financial burdens.

A draft decree proposes a roadmap to increase health insurance coverage levels. For four priority groups—including individuals aged 75 and older, people with disabilities, those under 18, and households with average living standards—coverage could rise from 80% to 95% by 2030. The plan includes phased increases starting in 2027.

Additionally, the Ministry is considering a policy to reimburse periodic health check-ups. For adults over 18, the proposed maximum reimbursement is 350,000 VND per person per year, covering examination fees and basic technical services. Other age groups, such as children under 6, would receive lower maximum amounts.

Regarding outpatient care, the Ministry proposes expanding the list of conditions eligible for prescriptions lasting up to 90 days. The number of eligible diseases would increase from 252 to 372, including many cardiovascular, skin, and cancer-related conditions. This change aims to provide more stability for patients with chronic illnesses.