Vietnam plans to offer free annual health checks for all citizens from 2026 to boost preventive care. The proposal, tied to Resolution 72, includes expanded insurance coverage, staff incentives, and flexible funding using state and employer contributions. Lawmakers recommend integrating the measure into upcoming health and disease prevention laws.
Vietnam plans to provide every citizen with one free annual health check or screening starting in 2026, as part of a major government initiative to strengthen preventive healthcare and modernize the national health system. Submitted by Health Minister Đào Hồng Lan under authorization from the Prime Minister, the proposal gives effect to Resolution 72 of the Politburo on reforming public health management and medical human resources. The scheme would prioritise groups based on funding capacity and integrate existing school, workplace, and insurance-covered checkups while advancing universal electronic health records. Funding will combine contributions from employers, the health insurance fund, and the state budget, requiring about VNĐ6 trillion (US$227 million) annually for priority groups.
Additional reforms include raising insurance coverage to 100% for near-poor households and citizens aged 75 and above, piloting supplementary health packages, and improving allowances for health workers in difficult conditions. The government also proposes flexible land-use policies for medical facilities and stronger budget guarantees for vaccination programmes. The draft resolution, consisting of seven articles, is expected to take effect on 1 January 2026. The National Assembly committee advised clearer financing and benefit rules and integration with forthcoming legislation on disease prevention and health insurance.
