Healthcare in Vietnam for expats
Introduction
Living in Vietnam as an expat often means navigating a healthcare system that works very differently from what you may be used to. While Vietnam offers a wide range of healthcare options, understanding how to access the right care can make a significant difference.
This guide explains what expats should know about healthcare in Vietnam and how to choose suitable providers.
1. Public vs. private healthcare for expats
Vietnam has both public and private healthcare providers.
- Public hospitals are widely available and affordable but can be crowded and may offer limited English support.
- Private clinics and hospitals usually provide faster service, more comfort, and clearer pricing.
- International hospitals often cater specifically to foreign patients, offering English-speaking staff and internationally aligned standards.
Most expats prefer private or international facilities for non-emergency care.
2. Language and communication
Language can be one of the biggest challenges for expats. While some doctors in public hospitals speak English, communication is not always guaranteed.
Private and international clinics are more likely to offer English-speaking doctors, translators, and bilingual medical documentation.
3. Insurance and payment
Some expats rely on international health insurance, while others pay out of pocket.
It is important to:
- Check whether your insurance is accepted
- Understand what services are covered
- Ask about costs upfront if paying privately
Many clinics require payment at the time of service.
4. Quality and accreditation
Vietnam has many well-trained doctors, but quality can vary between providers. Accreditation, such as JCI or ISO certification, can indicate structured quality and safety processes.
While accreditation is not mandatory, many expats consider it an important factor when choosing a hospital.
5. Choosing the right clinic
When selecting a healthcare provider, expats should consider:
- Type of facility (private or international)
- Language support
- Location and accessibility
- Transparency of pricing
Conclusion
Vietnam offers reliable healthcare options for expats, particularly through private and international clinics. By understanding how the system works and choosing providers carefully, expats can access quality care with confidence.
Use our clinic search to explore healthcare providers across Vietnam and find clinics that meet your needs.