Dong Nai Province Launches Free Health Check-up Campaign for All Residents

Dong Nai Province in southern Vietnam has launched a major free health check-up campaign aimed at improving the overall health of its residents. On July 12, a launch ceremony in Tri An Ward, Dong Nai City, marked the commencement of a 180-day intensive campaign. With a population of approximately 5 million people and an area of 12,700 square kilometers, Dong Nai Province encompasses diverse regions including urban centers, industrial parks, rural areas, and ethnic minority communities. This province-wide health screening initiative is a crucial task for the entire political system, aiming to ensure that all residents have access to quality healthcare services at the grassroots level. Through this 180-day campaign, Dong Nai Province aims to establish a sustainable national health management system, facilitate early detection of diseases and risk factors, ensure continuous health management throughout life, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. The program, set to run until the end of 2026, involves an investment of over VND 1,348 billion (approximately USD 54 million). The objective is for 100% of the population to undergo at least one free periodic health check-up or screening by the end of 2026. Dr. Do Thi Nguyen, Director of the Dong Nai Department of Health, instructed healthcare professionals and related agencies to conduct health examinations according to professional procedures, targeting the correct individuals, and ensuring substantial quality. She stressed the importance of avoiding formalism and tokenism, emphasizing that each individual's health status must be fully assessed, with specific advice and follow-up guidance provided. All examination results will be accurately updated into electronic health records and electronic health books on the VNeID application, serving long-term health management and supporting medical administration. The Director also highlighted the need to strengthen the role of grassroots healthcare, with city-level hospitals and specialized medical facilities providing professional support and technical transfer to improve early disease detection and reduce unnecessary referrals. "We must use the quality of health examinations, the effectiveness of post-examination health management, and the satisfaction of the people as metrics to evaluate the campaign's results," emphasized Dr. Do Thi Nguyen, a specialist II physician. Deputy Minister of Health Do Xuan Tuyen acknowledged and highly praised Dong Nai Province's proactive approach, urging the mobilization of the entire political system to ensure that all citizens have access to health check-up services. Immediately following the launch ceremony, the Dong Nai health sector organized health check-ups, counseling, and disease screening for over 6,000 residents in six wards and communes, creating electronic health records. On this occasion, the Vietnam Children's Fund provided financial support totaling VND 500 million, including 100 scholarships, 60 bicycles, and 330 boxes of milk to children with special circumstances in Dong Nai Province. Additionally, some organizations and businesses have contributed resources to support periodic health check-ups for residents.