Vietnam Prioritizes Healthcare Access During Lunar New Year
Vietnam is proactively ensuring a stable supply of medications for both treatment and preventative care as it approaches the 2026 Lunar New Year, also known as Tết Bính Ngọ (the Year of the Horse). This initiative aims to meet the healthcare needs of the population during the holiday period and the subsequent winter-spring season.
Proactive Inspections and Supply Chain Monitoring
On February 13, 2026, the Vietnam Drug Administration (under the Ministry of Health), in collaboration with Hanoi’s health department, conducted on-site inspections of Sanh Phong General Hospital and various pharmacies. These inspections confirmed positive compliance with regulations. The inspections focused on ensuring adequate medication stocks and preparedness for potential surges in demand.
Hanoi’s health department has instructed hospitals and pharmaceutical companies to maintain 24/7 staffing to guarantee a consistent medication supply. This includes rapid assessment of the situation and adjustments to quantities as needed. Observations during the inspections revealed a proactive and positive approach from the facilities involved.
Hospital Preparedness and Stockpiling
Saint Paul General Hospital has developed a specific plan to adequately supply medications for medical examinations and treatments. The hospital operates a 24/7 staffing model and has sufficient medication reserves to cover not only the Lunar New Year holiday but also through the end of the first quarter of 2026. Crucially, the hospital is equipped with all types of essential emergency medications as directed by the Ministry of Health.
All hospital pharmacies in Hanoi are operating 24/7, and 194 retail pharmacies within the city have committed to remaining open throughout the Lunar New Year period to ensure continuous access to medications.
Focus on Seasonal Disease Prevention
The Ministry of Health is emphasizing the importance of securing sufficient supplies of medications to treat and prevent common seasonal illnesses. This includes preparations for diseases prevalent during the winter-spring season, such as dengue fever, influenza A, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, measles, rubella, rotavirus diarrhea, and respiratory and digestive ailments.
Coordination and Emergency Response
Effective coordination between regulatory bodies, healthcare facilities, and pharmaceutical companies is seen as vital to protecting public health during the holiday season. The Drug Administration and the Ministry of Health have established emergency support centers ready to respond immediately to any supply chain disruptions.
Navigating Healthcare in Hanoi: A Guide for Expats
For foreigners residing in or traveling to Hanoi, understanding the healthcare system is crucial. Although public hospitals are available, they often face overcrowding and language barriers. Private hospitals and international clinics are generally recommended for expats.
Choosing the Right Healthcare Facility
Several options cater to international patients:
- Hanoi French Hospital (FVH Hanoi): Considered a top-tier international hospital with a 24-hour emergency room.
- Raffles Medical Hanoi: Operated by a Singaporean company, specializing in foreign patient care.
- Thu Cuc International Hospital: Offers Korean-language consultation and has a Korean coordinator on staff.
- Hanoi Family Medical Practice: Features numerous pediatric specialists and a foreign physician system.
- K-MED Clinic: Provides 100% Korean-language services with Korean doctors specializing in dentistry and internal medicine.
Most international hospitals operate on an appointment-only basis, requiring reservations via phone or their website.
FAQ
Q: Will pharmacies be open during Tết?
A: Yes, all hospital pharmacies and 194 retail pharmacies in Hanoi will remain open 24/7 during the Lunar New Year holiday.
Q: What types of medications are being prioritized?
A: Essential emergency medications, as well as those for treating common seasonal illnesses like dengue fever and influenza.
Q: Are there hospitals in Hanoi with English-speaking staff?
A: Yes, several international hospitals and clinics, such as Hanoi French Hospital and Raffles Medical Hanoi, have English-speaking staff.
Q: What should I do in a medical emergency in Hanoi?
A: Seek immediate medical attention at an international hospital with a 24-hour emergency room, such as Hanoi French Hospital.
Did you know? The Vietnamese government is actively working to ensure medication availability extends beyond the holiday period, with sufficient stocks to last through the first quarter of 2026.
Pro Tip: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, it’s advisable to bring an adequate supply of your regular medications with you when traveling to Vietnam.
To learn more about healthcare options in Vietnam, explore resources from the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Share your experiences with healthcare in Hanoi in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel and health updates.
