Finding Hospitals and Clinics in Vietnam: A Guide for Expats

Finding the right healthcare provider as an expat in Vietnam can be daunting. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the Vietnamese medical system and find a hospital or clinic that meets your needs. 

Public vs. Private Healthcare

Vietnam offers both public and private healthcare options. Public hospitals are generally more affordable but can be crowded and have limited English-speaking staff. Private hospitals cater to expats and offer higher standards of care, English-speaking doctors, and modern facilities, but at a higher cost.

Funding and Cost:

• Public Hospitals: Funded by the government, offering subsidized healthcare services. Treatment costs are generally much lower than private hospitals.
• Private Hospitals: Operate independently, relying on patient fees. Costs for treatments and services are typically higher than public hospitals.

Facilities and Services:

• Public Hospitals: May have older equipment and facilities due to budget constraints. Waiting times can be longer due to higher patient volume.
• Private Hospitals: Often have more modern facilities and advanced technology. Appointments are easier to obtain, and waiting times tend to be shorter. They may offer a wider range of services, including specialized treatments and amenities.

Staffing:

• Public Hospitals: Generally have qualified doctors, but there might be a shortage of specialists due to lower salaries compared to the private sector.
• Private Hospitals: Often attract experienced doctors and specialists due to higher salaries and better working conditions.

Focus:

• Public Hospitals: Provide general medical and surgical care, with a focus on serving the community’s needs.
• Private Hospitals: May specialize in specific areas like cardiology, oncology, or orthopedics. They cater more towards patient comfort and convenience.

Choosing the Right Facility

Here’s what to consider when choosing a hospital or clinic:

• Location: Look for a facility conveniently located near your home or workplace.
• Specialties: Choose a facility with specialists relevant to your needs (pediatrics, cardiology, etc.).
• Language: Prioritize facilities with English-speaking staff if you don’t speak Vietnamese.
• Insurance: Ensure the facility is in your insurance network if you have health insurance.
• Cost: Private facilities are generally more expensive. Research costs beforehand, especially for major procedures.
• Reputation: Ask friends, colleagues, or online expat forums for recommendations.

Finding Hospitals and Clinics

• Internet: A quick Google search can return a list of hospitals and clinics in your area. Leverage Google reviews to get insights from past patients.
• Word-of-Mouth: Recommendations from other expats are invaluable.
• Hospital Websites: Many hospitals have English websites listing services and staff qualifications.

This list provides a starting point for exploring hospitals and clinics in Vietnam. It may not be exhaustive, and some information may not be entirely current. However, we are committed to keeping this list as up-to-date as possible.