# Vietnam healthcare reform and modernization

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/vietnam-healthcare-sector-reform-and-modernization
> Updated: 2026-09-09T01:54:00.000Z. Sources: 27. Developments: 4.

Vietnam continues its transformation of the healthcare sector under Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW, which aims to build a modern, equitable, and sustainable system by 2045. The Ministry of Health is executing an action plan comprising 40 specific tasks, with a heavy emphasis on public health awareness, disease prevention, and strengthening grassroots healthcare through technical transfers.

Local implementation remains a key component of this strategy. In Ha Tinh, over 51.6% of the population has received periodic health screenings or free medical examinations. Other regional efforts include decentralizing management and reallocating personnel to local levels, such as in Da Nang, Hung Yen, and Ho Chi Minh City, to reduce the burden on higher-level facilities.

In September 2026, the reform efforts expanded into legislative and regulatory domains. Prime Minister Le Minh Hung directed the amendment of several healthcare laws, with proposed changes slated for submission to the National Assembly in October 2026. A central focus of these legislative updates is the management and distribution of medicines and medical equipment. The Prime Minister emphasized the need to eliminate “legal loopholes and administrative bottlenecks” that hinder access to essential supplies, calling for transparent mechanisms to reduce intermediary costs and prevent profiteering.

Furthermore, the government is addressing food safety by proposing a shift from pre-inspection to post-inspection models. This includes improving food traceability, early warning systems, and the management of school meals and collective kitchens to safeguard public health.

Recent legislative developments have further shaped the regulatory landscape. The President has officially announced orders for several newly passed laws, including specific regulations regarding substance use. Notably, a ban on the use of nitrous oxide for human inhalation will take effect on January 1, 2027, except for medical or scientific purposes.

## Claims

- The President of Vietnam announced orders for 15 laws passed by the 16th National Assembly. (corroborated by 6 sources)
- Vietnam is implementing Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW to improve public health protection and care. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Da Nang has transferred preventive medicine and population management tasks to commune and district people's committees. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The 2026 Law on Petroleum aims to increase decentralization and simplify procedures. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The amended laws on military and defense define five specific cases of evading military service. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Da Nang aims to have 4 to 5 doctors at every health station by 2027. (single source)
- Hung Yen province reallocated over 400 human resources, including 100 general practitioners, to commune and ward levels. (single source)
- Ho Chi Minh City is converting regional medical centers into primary hospitals to reduce pressure on higher-level units. (single source)
- Vietnam is working toward autonomous mastery of high-quality vaccine research and production. (single source)
- Quang Ninh province has mastered nearly 80% of central-level medical technologies. (single source)
- Quang Ninh province reported a patient referral rate to central hospitals of only 0.59% in the first half of 2026. (single source)
- The amended Law on Investment will take effect on March 1, 2027. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Vietnam implements healthcare reforms under Resolution 72-NQ/TW

Vietnam is advancing healthcare reforms under Resolution 72-NQ/TW, focusing on preventive medicine, essential free services, and strengthening grassroots healthcare systems.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-implements-healthcare-reforms-under-resolution-72-nqtw

### 2026-09-08: Vietnam announces 15 new laws covering investment, petroleum, and technology

Vietnam has announced orders for 15 new laws, including major reforms to investment, petroleum, and telecommunications aimed at reducing administrative hurdles and cutting business conditions.

23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-prime-minister-calls-for-medical-supply-and-pricing-reforms

### 2026-08-20: Vietnam reforms healthcare through grassroots strengthening and technology

Vietnam is reforming its healthcare system by strengthening primary care, decentralizing medical management, and pursuing technological autonomy in vaccines and specialized medicine.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-reforms-healthcare-through-grassroots-strengthening-and-technology

### 2026-08-07: Vietnam healthcare sector shifts toward preventive care and lean management

Vietnam is advancing healthcare through

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-healthcare-sector-shifts-toward-preventive-care-and-lean-management

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Cite as: Vietnam healthcare reform and modernization. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/vietnam-healthcare-sector-reform-and-modernization
