Ho Chi Minh City to Expand Health Insurance Support for Elderly

Ho Chi Minh City is considering expanding its health insurance premium support program to include residents aged 60 to under 65, following the successful implementation of Resolution 56/2025/NQ-HĐND, which provides 100% coverage for those aged 65 to under 75. This move aligns with Vietnam's national goal of achieving universal health insurance and addressing the challenges of an aging population. Since the resolution took effect, local authorities have collaborated with the Social Insurance Agency to promptly issue health insurance cards. As of the end of May 2026, over 276,000 elderly individuals aged 65 to under 75 received their cards. Consequently, 1.47 million medical visits were covered free of charge, with the Health Insurance Fund disbursing over VND 1,083 billion (approximately USD 43 million). Beneficiaries have expressed gratitude for the reduced financial burden and improved access to healthcare. To further its universal health insurance objectives and enhance elderly care, the city has proposed extending 100% premium support from the state budget to residents aged 60 to under 65. If approved, this would benefit approximately 195,918 permanent residents and require an additional annual budget of around VND 267.6 billion (approximately USD 10.7 million). This age group often faces unstable incomes post-retirement or relies on family support, making them vulnerable to rising healthcare costs. As they may not qualify for pensions or monthly social allowances, this support is crucial for ensuring continued access to medical services and preventing insurance disenrollment due to financial hardship. Upon approval, Ho Chi Minh City would join Hanoi as a major city implementing comprehensive health insurance premium support for all individuals aged 60 and above. This initiative signifies a significant step forward in Vietnam's social welfare policies, offering proactive care from the early stages of old age. Source: Nhan Dan