Ho Chi Minh City Plans $100 Million Health Check Initiative for 2026

Ho Chi Minh City is set to allocate approximately 2,507 billion VND (around $100 million USD) in 2026 for a comprehensive health check-up program targeting all residents. The initiative, presented by the city's Department of Health, aims to ensure every citizen residing in the city receives at least one medical examination annually.

The program prioritizes vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, poor and near-poor households, those with chronic illnesses, and residents in disadvantaged areas. The health check-ups will be conducted starting May 2026, with an estimated 15 million check-ups planned for the year, covering all 168 urban and rural districts.

Results will be integrated into electronic health records for lifelong management. The cost per check-up is capped at 350,000 VND. While the state budget will cover checks for certain groups, employers are responsible for the periodic health examinations of their employees. The city also plans a large-scale health check-up drive for approximately one million workers from May to September 2026, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Labor Confederation.