This study by LSE Health's Medical Technology Research Group (MTRG) examines how Vietnam can mobilise the resources needed to achieve its ambitious health reform agenda, including universal health coverage, reduced out-of-pocket spending, expanded preventive care, and free basic hospital services by 2030. Despite strong health outcomes, near-universal health insurance coverage, and a favourable fiscal position, Vietnam faces a substantial healthcare financing gap driven by population ageing, rising non-communicable diseases, and growing demand for health services.
The report assesses a range of financing options and proposes a phased roadmap centred on increased government investment in health, strengthened social health insurance, earmarked revenues from tobacco, alcohol, and lottery proceeds, and efficiency-enhancing mechanisms such as managed entry agreements and patient assistance programmes. Together, these reforms offer a practical and fiscally sustainable pathway to strengthening health system resilience, improving access to care, and supporting Vietnam’s long-term social and economic development goals.