'I'm glad I got seriously ill here': British retiree praises Vietnamese healthcare after surgery

In a remarkable testament to the quality and accessibility of healthcare in Vietnam, Baz Mattaz, a 63-year-old British retiree, has shared his overwhelmingly positive experience following prostate surgery in Da Nang. Mattaz, who chose to settle in Vietnam after visiting 34 countries, found himself in a critical condition requiring immediate intervention for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). His narrative offers a stark contrast to the healthcare system he left behind in the UK.

“

Ở Anh, hệ thống y tế quốc gia (NHS) thường ưu tiên cho bệnh nhân dùng thuốc suốt đời thay vì phẫu thuật để giải quyết dứt điểm.

Facing a deteriorating health situation where his prostate condition impeded kidney function, Mattaz was admitted to a Da Nang hospital. While initially offered a less modern surgical approach, he transferred to a private hospital where he received prompt attention. The decision to undergo surgery in Vietnam, rather than return to the UK, was heavily influenced by advice from his former UK doctor and a friend within the NHS. They candidly informed him of potential multi-month waiting lists for older procedures in the UK or significantly higher costs for private treatment, which could be three to five times more expensive than in Vietnam.

“

Nếu anh thấy ổn với bác sĩ ở đó thì cứ mổ luôn đi.

Mattaz's experience underscores the efficiency and patient-centered approach prevalent in Vietnam's medical facilities. He received immediate care, avoiding the lengthy waits often associated with the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The total cost for his treatment, including hospitalization, follow-up, and medication, amounted to approximately 60 million VND (around US$2,400), a fraction of what he would have paid in Britain. He lauded the high caliber of medical professionals, their dedication, and the modern facilities, noting that most staff communicated effectively in English.

“

Toàn bộ chi phí điều trị là khoảng 60 triệu đồng, bao gồm 5 ngày nằm viện, tái khám và thuốc men. Chưa hết, tôi còn được tiếp nhận ngay, không phải chờ đợi mòn mỏi.

While the surgery was a resounding success, enabling him to regain comfortable urinary function – a life-changing outcome – Mattaz acknowledges a lasting impact on his kidney health due to the pre-operative condition. He now manages Stage 3A chronic kidney disease through dietary adjustments. His story serves not only as a personal account but also as a powerful endorsement of Vietnam's healthcare system, highlighting its strengths in specialized care, patient service, and affordability, particularly when compared to the challenges faced by patients in the UK's NHS.

“

Chất lượng chăm sóc cũng tuyệt vời: bác sĩ và y tá chuyên môn cao, tận tâm, phần lớn nói được tiếng Anh (nhiều người nói rất tốt), cơ sở vật chất hiện đại.