Vietnam Ministry of Health to expand health insurance drug coverage

Vietnam's Ministry of Health is reviewing and amending the list of drugs covered by the Health Insurance Fund. The proposed changes aim to expand coverage at primary healthcare facilities for 349 different drugs.

Key additions under consideration include new-generation cancer drugs, biological medicines, and immunotherapy drugs. The Ministry intends to include high-efficacy innovative drugs while balancing patient affordability with the financial stability of the Health Insurance Fund.

Under new regulations established by Circular 37/2024/TT-BYT, reimbursement for chemical drugs will be based on professional scope, approved technical service lists, and diagnostic guidelines, rather than hospital classification as previously required. This shift aims to address voter concerns regarding insufficient medication supplies at local medical centers.