The Cost of Healthcare in Vietnam: A Guide for Foreign Teachers

Moving to Vietnam offers many benefits: affordable living, vibrant culture, and growing expat communities. But when it comes to healthcare, many foreigners wonder: How much does healthcare cost in Vietnam? Understanding the system, expected expenses, and insurance options will help you prepare and avoid unexpected bills.

1. Overview of Healthcare in Vietnam

Vietnam has a dual healthcare system:

• Public hospitals – run by the government, more affordable but often crowded, with limited English-speaking staff.
• Private and international hospitals – more expensive but offer modern facilities, shorter waiting times, and English-speaking doctors.

For expats, most choose private or international clinics for convenience and better communication.

2. Cost of Medical Consultations

• Public hospitals: around 100,000–300,000 VND (USD 4–12) for a basic consultation.
• Private clinics: between 500,000–1,200,000 VND (USD 20–50).
• International hospitals: around 1,000,000–2,500,000 VND (USD 40–100), depending on the doctor’s specialization.
   

3. Cost of Common Medical Services

• Diagnostic tests (X-ray, ultrasound): USD 20–80.
• Blood tests: USD 10–50.
• Dental check-up & cleaning: USD 20–40; more complex dental work is significantly cheaper than in Western countries.
• Prescription medicine: Often cheaper than in the West, but imported brands can cost more.
   

4. Emergency and Hospitalization Costs

Emergency room visits: USD 100–200 at international hospitals.

Inpatient stay (per night):

• Public hospital: USD 10–30.
• Private hospital: USD 50–150.
• International hospital: USD 200–500.

Surgery: Costs vary widely. Minor surgery may be USD 500–2,000, while major procedures can exceed USD 10,000 in international hospitals.
 

5. Maternity Care Costs

• Prenatal check-ups (international clinic): USD 40–100 each.
• Normal delivery: USD 1,000–2,000 in private hospitals, USD 3,000–6,000 in international hospitals.
• Cesarean section (C-section): USD 2,000–5,000 depending on the facility.
   

6. Health Insurance for Expats in Vietnam

Without insurance, medical bills can quickly add up. Many expats purchase international health insurance or local private insurance plans that cover:

• Outpatient care
• Hospitalization
• Emergency evacuation (important if specialized care is needed abroad)

On average, expat health insurance in Vietnam costs USD 500–2,000 per year, depending on coverage and age.

7. Tips for Managing Healthcare Costs

• Get health insurance: it’s the best way to avoid large out-of-pocket expenses.
• Use public hospitals for minor care if you speak some Vietnamese and want to save money.
• Choose private or international clinics for English-speaking staff and higher-quality service.
• Always check prices before treatment, as international hospitals often provide estimates.

The cost of healthcare in Vietnam is generally lower than in Western countries, but prices vary greatly between public, private, and international hospitals. Foreign teachers should budget for higher expenses at international facilities and strongly consider purchasing insurance. With the right planning, you can access reliable medical care in Vietnam without financial stress.