Guide

International Health Insurance for Vietnam

When making the move to Vietnam, securing your health is paramount.

With a healthcare system that offers a mix of public and private medical services, understanding your healthcare options abroad is crucial.

As an expat, navigating the local healthcare landscape can be daunting, particularly due to the limited public healthcare facilities in more rural parts of the country.

International health insurance in Vietnam ensures that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it.

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By André Disselkamp

Co-Founder, Insurancy

Updated: 14.04.2024

Key Takeaways

Acquaint yourself with the healthcare system in Vietnam, noting the distinction between public and private services.
Investigate the proportion of licensed international health insurance providers operating in Vietnam to ensure a legitimate coverage.
Bear in mind the average price range for international health insurance policies in Vietnam for budgeting your finances.
Review financial ratings of insurers for a secure investment in your health and wellbeing.
Consider the efficiency and speed of claims handling by insurance companies as a crucial factor in your decision.
Educate yourself about the frequency of consumer complaints related to international health insurance to gauge satisfaction and reliability.
Analyse the ratio of policies sold to consumer complaints in Vietnam, which can reflect customer contentment with the insurance services.

The Necessity of Expat Health Insurance in Vietnam

As you consider the transition to life in Vietnam, understanding the landscape of expat health insurance Vietnam is paramount. While the Social Health Insurance (SHI) program extends to about 80% of residents, it is vital to recognise that private healthcare in Vietnam takes precedence, particularly due to gaps in service provision in less urbanised areas.

Private Healthcare as a Prerequisite for Expats

The healthcare system in Vietnam is on a journey towards comprehensive coverage and service enhancements; yet, expatriates often discover that local options do not satisfy their needs fully. This reason alone elevates the need for expat health insurance in Vietnam, as secure health coverage offers peace of mind and access to higher quality care. For those working with a Vietnamese employer for over three months, SHI eligibility presents an option. However, private healthcare in Vietnam, secured through international policies, could be the preferred choice given its broader coverage and superior facilities.

The Encouragement for Expats to Secure Insurance

With an expatriate’s basic insurance policy costing between $100 and $200 per month, the investment is not merely a buffer for health-related expenses but a gateway to secure health coverage that accommodates an international lifestyle. You contribute about 1.5% of your salary towards the SHI scheme, supplemented by the employer’s 3% contribution, but for comprehensive and responsive care, turning to reputed providers like AXA Global Healthcare, Allianz, Aetna International, or Cigna Global could be advantageous. In essence, the modest outlay for private healthcare in Vietnam is a proactive step towards ensuring your well-being while abroad. Local insurance options from providers such as Bao Viet Insurance, PTI Insurance, and BIDV Insurance, also play a role, highlighting the range of choices available to you.

Do not underestimate the disparities in healthcare quality between urban and rural areas in Vietnam. This dichotomy makes it all the more necessary for expats to pursue private health coverage, ensuring that wherever you are within the country, your health is not compromised.

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Evaluating Vietnam’s Healthcare System: Public vs Private Options

When considering the Vietnam healthcare system, a clear distinction emerges between public and private healthcare options. Your choice as an expatriate or a local resident will significantly affect your access and experience of healthcare services in the country. The recent study of 4900 individuals brings to light several critical statistics that highlight the state of expat healthcare in Vietnam following the implementation of the Revised Health Insurance Law in 2014.

The data shows a noteworthy increase in healthcare utilisation due to health insurance policy adjustments. Specifically, outpatient visits experienced an upswing by an average of 1.08, while there was a more modest rise in inpatient admissions by approximately 0.12, indicating health insurance’s role in facilitating greater access to healthcare services.

Healthcare Aspect	Impact of Health Insurance	2013-2017 Change
Outpatient Visits Increase	0.87 to 1.29 visits	60%-70% utilisation of health insurance cards
Inpatient Admissions Increase	0.08 to 0.16 admissions	40% utilisation of health insurance cards
Health Insurance Coverage	Most impact at district hospitals	Over 85% coverage achieved in 2017
Financial Protection Absence	Approx.15% of population	High out-of-pocket for inpatient (55.8%) & self-medication (43.7%)

Interestingly, district hospitals were most influenced by health insurance coverage, enhancing the frequency with which individuals sought care. Despite significant strides in insurance coverage, reaching above 85% in 2017, a proportion of the population remains without any form of financial protection, with around 15% having no health insurance—casting light upon the issue of out-of-pocket expenses, which are substantial for inpatient services and self-medication.

Public vs private healthcare: While public hospitals are more affordable, they’re challenged with long wait times and limited resources. Meanwhile, private healthcare facilities cater to about 34% of patients seeking outpatient care, a portion not covered by health insurance, leading some to self-treatment.
Accessibility gaps: Accessibility and healthcare service patterns diverge notably between rural and urban locales, with inequalities prevailing between socioeconomic statuses and ethnic groups. This amplifies the importance for expatriates to secure comprehensive health insurance, which bridges the accessibility gap in the public vs private healthcare network.

As an expatriate in Vietnam, understanding these dynamics is paramount for navigating the system effectively. The emphasis on private facilities is due to their alignment with international standards, shorter wait times, and multilingual staff. This culminates in the evident need for a solid health insurance backbone that supports your healthcare journey in Vietnam, whether it’s utilising public services or opting for private ones which often harbour higher standards and more efficient patient care.

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Comprehensive International Health Insurance Plans for Expats

As you consider relocating to Vietnam, it’s crucial to deliberate over your medical coverage options. In light of the fact that many expatriates opt for private health care due to the limitations found in public hospitals, securing comprehensive international health insurance is imperative. Private institutions, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are renowned for their higher standards and are frequently chosen for peace of mind when it comes to health care provisions in Vietnam.

One key aspect to factor in is the language proficiency of medical staff. In Vietnam’s major cities, you’ll find that private hospitals are often staffed by multilingual doctors from the USA, Korea, Japan, and France, many of whom are trained overseas and are able to communicate in English or French. This ease of communication is a significant benefit of private healthcare for expatriates, particularly in stressful situations that require clear understanding between patient and healthcare provider.

Basic treatments in private facilities are routinely included in expat insurance plans.
Investing in a robust policy is advised to defray the high costs of private healthcare.
Policy inclusivity should extend to elective treatments, with specialist fees varying significantly.

For those dwelling in Vietnam, there’s a consensus among locals who can afford it to seek private health coverage, fuelling a growing market for Vietnam medical coverage plans. This trend reflects the evolving landscape of the national health insurance plan, which is in a state of progressive development.

Medical evacuation options and treatment beyond Vietnam’s borders are crucial elements of any comprehensive plan, considering common destinations for higher-tier care include Bangkok or Singapore. Therefore, an expatriate’s policy should anticipate the need for wide-ranging coverage that extends well beyond Vietnamese soil.

Because counterfeit medicines and expired drugs pose a risk in Vietnam, it is essential to source medications from reputable pharmacies, typically located alongside private hospitals and clinics. For your safety, taking precautions such as consuming bottled water, utilising sunscreen, and acquiring necessary malaria prophylaxis for rural areas are recommended. Also, ensure that your vaccinations are up-to-date, including those for Covid-19, and have proper certificates, such as the yellow fever certificate if applicable.

Healthcare Feature	Private Care	Public Care	Insurance Coverage Consideration
Standards of Care	High	Developing	Private healthcare inclusion
Language Proficiency	Multiple languages	Primarily Vietnamese	Access to multilingual professionals
Medical Evacuation	Accessible	Challenging	Overseas coverage
Emergency Services	Faster private ambulances	National hotline 115	Emergency care and transportation

In an emergency, expatriates in Vietnam can dial 115 to reach medical services. However, it’s worth noting that private hospitals offer more expedient and efficient private ambulance services, particularly in larger cities. The right comprehensive international health insurance is your ally in securing the necessary assistance promptly, without fretting about the financial implications of such care. When it comes to safeguarding your well-being in Vietnam, the importance of an appropriate and comprehensive insurance plan cannot be overstated.

Understanding Vietnam’s Medical System and Insurance Needs

As expatriates residing in Vietnam, you may have heard that public hospitals in Vietnam may not always align with what you’re accustomed to back home. Indeed, expats report that these facilities fall short of international standards, having impelled many to opt for private treatment where the calibre of care is on par with their expectations. While public hospitals strive to deliver basic healthcare, services are often impeded by limited access and extended wait times.

Limited Access and Long Wait Times in Public Hospitals

Confronting the challenges of Vietnam’s medical system is part of everyday life if you prefer or need to access public hospitals in Vietnam. Despite the government’s goal to surpass 95% health insurance coverage by 2025, up from 62% in 2010, the system reels under the weight of high out-of-pocket expenses and underfunding, impacting your insurance needs as an expatriate significantly. Social health insurance does cover around 87% of the population, yet acute disparities exist in healthcare access, particularly between urban hubs and rural locales.

Higher Standards and Multilingual Staff in Private Healthcare

In stark contrast, private hospitals, primarily in thriving cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, boast standards that mirror those in more developed nations, complete with multilingual staff to ease any language barriers. It’s prudent then that expats investing in comprehensive international health insurance includes cover for higher private healthcare costs and potential medical evacuation, considering that affluent Vietnamese and other expats occasionally seek advanced medical treatment abroad.

Consideration	Public Healthcare	Private Healthcare
Service Standards	Limited access and long wait times	Equivalent to expats’ home countries
Health Insurance	High out-of-pocket expenses	Mostly covered by international health insurance
Ambulance Services	Slow response times; dial 115 in emergencies	Efficient private ambulance services available
Accessible Care	Challenges in rural areas	High-quality medical services in major urban areas
Insurance Coverage	Universal coverage growing, stigmatization prevails	Comprehensive plans essential for expat needs

It is also worth noting the significant difference in healthcare costs which are markedly lower in Vietnam than in many Western countries, making healthcare more attainable for the general populace. Nonetheless, the private sector in Vietnam is burgeoning, providing sophisticated medical services, though affordability remains skewed. Pharmacies, well-stocked and peppered throughout urban areas, only buttress the expansive tiered healthcare system, from national to commune healthcare centres.

To surmount potential adversities, whether you face sunburns or need malaria medication while spending time in rural Vietnam, staying apprised and insured are your fortifications against the unpredictabilities of healthcare abroad. Always make sure your basic and Covid vaccinations are current before taking the leap to Vietnam to circumvent any preventable healthcare woes. Tapping into the increasing array of mental health coverage might also fortify your well-being in what is, undoubtedly, a diverse and fascinating country.

International Health Insurance Vietnam: Selecting the Right Coverage

When you’re set on making Vietnam your home away from home, it’s critical to ensure your health and wellbeing are safeguarded. With the unique tapestry of healthcare services spread across the country, international health insurance selection becomes more than just a checkbox – it’s a cornerstone for safeguarding your future. Vietnam boasts a four-tiered hierarchical healthcare system ensuring that both basic and complex medical needs can be met across national, provincial, district, and commune healthcare centers. However, for those residing in less accessible rural areas or remote locations, the reassurance of having robust health coverage is invaluable.

Considerations for Remote and Rural Healthcare Access

While Vietnam has seen an encouraging increase in personal health insurance coverage – rocketing from 62% in 2010 to an impressive 89.3% in 2021 – there remains a clear divergence in healthcare accessibility. If you’re residing in the bustling cities, healthcare services are within an arm’s reach. Yet for the remote healthcare Vietnam landscape, it’s prudent to carefully assess your insurance options. Notably, the government is making strides to push coverage rates beyond 95% by 2025, focusing on inclusivity is paramount.

Importance of Medical Evacuation and Overseas Treatment Options

Medical emergencies wait for no one, and medical evacuation insurance is essential for peace of mind. This facet of your insurance policy is a lifeline if advanced care is needed, where being airlifted for treatment in neighboring countries or your homeland makes all the difference. Cost-wise, Vietnam offers more affordable healthcare than many countries, and this includes the necessary costs for medical evacuation, ensuring it’s a viable option for international policyholders.

Choosing the right health insurance often involves navigating through a plethora of plans. It’s here where attention to detail matters; private healthcare is blossoming throughout Vietnam due to increasing demand, presenting a range of choices for those preferring premium medical attention. Let’s look at a concise comparison of healthcare accessibility in Vietnam:

Healthcare Level	Accessibility	Insurance Coverage Increase (2010-2021)	Cost Comparison to Other Countries
National/Provincial	Widely accessible	27.3% increase	Significantly cheaper
District/Commune	Accessible with travel	N/A	Comparable to national/provincial
Private Sector	Increasingly available	N/A	More expensive but still competitive

In your quest for the ideal international health insurance selection, ensure that you’re analyzing the avenues for remote healthcare in Vietnam and the necessity for medical evacuation plans. Selecting comprehensive cover enables you to navigate the health system with confidence, regardless of whether you’re in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City or the serene hills of Sapa.

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Preventive Measures and Healthcare Tips for Expats in Vietnam

Living in Vietnam offers many vibrant cultural experiences, but it’s essential for expatriates to be proactive about their health. With the country focusing on preventive healthcare in Vietnam, expats too should take advantage of available resources and maintain a vigilant stance on their well-being. Private healthcare facilities are noteworthy for their quality services and are often preferred by expats seeking medical attention over the challenges encountered in public hospitals.

Private Hospitals and Clinics vs Public Hospital Challenges

When it comes to healthcare in Vietnam, there is a significant difference in service provision between private and public institutions. While the government has been successful in raising national standards and making healthcare more accessible, public hospitals can occasionally be overcrowded, leading to shared accommodations and longer wait times. On the flip side, private hospitals and clinics, though more expensive, tend to provide a higher standard of care and more comfortable environments for patients, making them particularly suitable for expatriates interested in expat healthcare tips.

Navigating Pharmacies and Medications in Vietnam

Purchasing medications in Vietnam requires a cautious approach, especially due to the import reliance for medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. For expats, it’s imperative to verify that pharmacies are reputable, ideally those affiliated with private clinics and hospitals to avoid counterfeit drugs. Vietnam pharmacies medication guidelines should be followed strictly to ensure safety and compliance with local laws. When long-term medications are required, securing a local prescription is advised, especially as certain medications from abroad might not be readily available.

Healthcare Aspect	Public Sector	Private Sector
Insurance Coverage	Universal coverage growing, 89.3% insured as of 2021	Oftentimes preferred by expats, higher quality services
Average Costs	Cheaper than many countries, public campaigns for disease prevention	Higher costs, aligned with international standards
Pharmaceuticals	Limited access in some areas, potential for counterfeit drugs	Access to certified medications, usually attached to reputable hospitals
Investment in Healthcare	Growing demands for medical equipment, public hospitals predominant	Private sector driving national standards, growing medical device market

If you are an expatriate residing in Vietnam, embracing the culture of preventive healthcare in Vietnam and understanding the dynamics of the healthcare system can be immensely beneficial. It ensures that you are prepared, informed, and have peace of mind during your stay in this captivating country.

Additional Considerations: Visa, Employment, and Education Implications

Embarking on an expatriation journey to Vietnam requires foresight into critical aspects like Vietnam visa requirements, expat employment conditions, and international schooling options. With Vietnam welcoming an astonishing 89,193 foreigners in March 2022 alone, signaling a 104% increase from prior months, it’s evident that the nation’s allure for expatriates continues to grow. Amidst these influxes, the variety of visas ranging from tourism to employment implicates different prerequisites, with some demanding a clean health record, especially for those seeking a work permit.

The legalities surrounding work permits are rigorous, with the provision allowing issuance for up to two years and eligibility for a singular renewal under the Labor Code 2019. This process, which may extend beyond the typical 10 business-day window due to discretionary documentation requirements, supports the adherence to local employment statutes. Moreover, expatriates wishing to enrich their stay in Vietnam through work should note the dire consequences of non-compliance with work permit regulations, which could lead to hefty fines and deportation.

Education for expatriate families is another paramount concern, and choosing the right international school in Vietnam can have significant impacts on the family’s overall satisfaction and adaptation to their new environment. Providing globally recognised curricula and a sense of community, international schools can be a cornerstone of your expatriate experience. Understanding these nuances and the lifestyle adjustments required will ensure that your transition to Vietnam proceeds as smoothly as possible, and keep you abreast of your rights and responsibilities within this vibrant nation.

FAQ

What should I know about international health insurance in Vietnam?

International health insurance in Vietnam is designed to provide expatriates with access to private healthcare facilities that meet international standards, ensuring quality medical care and multilingual staff. Given the limited public healthcare system, especially in rural areas, having comprehensive expat medical insurance is crucial for your health and financial protection.

Why is private healthcare considered a prerequisite for expats in Vietnam?

Private healthcare is essential for expats due to the scarcity of public healthcare facilities in rural areas, the higher care quality in private facilities, and to avoid expensive fees non-residents often face. It ensures access to timely and efficient medical treatment, which is especially important in emergency situations.

How does the encouragement for expats to secure health coverage benefit them?

Securing health coverage helps expats avoid substantial out-of-pocket costs that may arise from medical treatments. It also provides peace of mind, knowing that they have access to quality healthcare whenever needed.

What are the differences between public and private healthcare options in Vietnam?

Public hospitals in Vietnam offer more affordable services but come with limitations such as long wait times, limited access in remote areas, and language barriers. Private hospitals, conversely, align better with international standards, offer shorter wait times, and higher standards of care with multilingual staff, making them the preferred choice for expats.

What should be included in a comprehensive international health insurance plan for expats in Vietnam?

A comprehensive plan should cover basic treatments, specialist fees, and provide options for treatments outside of Vietnam if needed. It should offer flexibility and extensive coverage to suit individual health needs, including access to top-tier private hospitals in Vietnam or the option for international medical attention if required.

How does Vietnam’s medical system impact expatriates’ insurance needs?

The medical system’s limitations, particularly in public hospitals, directly impact the level of coverage expatriates should seek. International health insurance plans tailored to expatriates’ needs are indispensable, ensuring they have adequate healthcare coverage and access to better-equipped private hospitals and clinics.

What considerations should I keep in mind for healthcare access in rural Vietnam?

Expats living in rural areas where healthcare is rudimentary should consider insurance policies that cater to medical evacuation and treatment in neighbouring countries for specialised care. It’s vital to have a plan that offers access to timely and quality medical attention, even if it means travelling outside Vietnam.

Why is medical evacuation and overseas treatment an important option in expat insurance plans?

Medical evacuation and overseas treatment options are crucial for expats, especially those in remote areas, ensuring that they can receive immediate and adequate care in case local facilities are unable to manage specific medical emergencies or complex procedures.

What are some preventive healthcare measures expats in Vietnam should adopt?

It is important to drink bottled water, use strong UV protection sunscreen, and keep vaccinations up-to-date. Expats should also be aware of the challenges in public hospitals and rely on private hospitals for better services. Regarding medication, ensure prescriptions comply with local regulations and purchase medicines from reliable pharmacies, ideally attached to private hospitals.

How do I navigate pharmacies and medication in Vietnam?

To navigate pharmacies and medication, you should always buy from reputable sources, often attached to private clinics or hospitals. Be cautious of counterfeit medicines and check for the availability of over-the-counter options for any chronic conditions. A local prescription may be necessary for certain medications.

What additional considerations should I be aware of as an expat in Vietnam?

Beyond healthcare, as an expat, you should consider visa procedures, employment laws, and educational opportunities for family members. A health check is usually required for work permits, understanding social security contributions is important, and finding suitable international schools is essential for those with children.