Exploring the Healthcare Choices of Foreign Residents in Vietnam
In recent research conducted by Indochina Research Vietnam Ltd., the healthcare preferences of foreign residents in Vietnam have been unveiled, emphasizing the importance of medical professional expertise in decision-making. The survey provides invaluable insights for healthcare institutions and stakeholders in the country.
Survey Overview
The survey, which took place over two months in early 2025, reached expatriates living in major urban centers including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Can Tho. Participation required respondents to have established a residency status—three months for Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and at least one month for Da Nang and Can Tho—while having intentions to remain in Vietnam for an additional six months.
Key Findings
- Vinmec, a prominent private hospital chain, emerged as the most recognized healthcare provider among respondents, with awareness figures reported at 80% in Hanoi, 71% in Ho Chi Minh City, and 78% in Da Nang.
- Other key players in the healthcare sector included Family Medical Practice, Hanoi French Hospital, and FV Hospital.
Factors Influencing Healthcare Choices
When it comes to selecting healthcare facilities, foreign residents primarily prioritize:
- Expertise of doctors (53%)
- Availability of advanced medical technology (48%)
- Quality of patient care and empathy (40%)
These factors remained consistent across various cities, although local preferences were noted.
Healthcare Engagement and Future Intentions
Within the last two years, approximately 88% of expatriates reported using healthcare facilities in Vietnam, with the most sought-after services being:
- Routine health assessments (48%)
- Dental treatments (39%)
- General medical advice (38%)
With an optimistic outlook, 87% of respondents indicated plans to continue using medical services in Vietnam over the next six to twelve months, particularly for dental care (59%) and health check-ups (58%).
Emergency Care Preferences
For emergency services, preferences varied by city:
- In Hanoi, Vinmec is favored.
- FV Hospital is the preferred choice in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Vinmec leads in Da Nang, while expatriates in Can Tho opt for the Can Tho University of Medicine.
The Importance of Understanding Healthcare Preferences
Xavier Depouilly, General Director of Indochina Research Vietnam, underscored the significance of these findings, stating, “This first survey serves as a valuable resource for healthcare institutions in Vietnam, offering them critical data on the needs, expectations, and feedback on past experiences of foreign residents in healthcare facilities in four key cities.” He emphasized the necessity for these insights to enhance the quality of medical services available to expatriates and their families, promoting overall development in Vietnam’s healthcare sector.