Vietnam's Health Ministry Proposes New Departments for Health Insurance and Digital Transformation

The Ministry of Health is undertaking a significant organizational restructuring, proposing the establishment of two new departments: the Department of Health Insurance and the Department of Information Technology and Digital Transformation. This move, detailed in a draft decree currently under review by the Ministry of Justice, signals a proactive approach to evolving healthcare demands within Vietnam.

The rationale behind elevating the current Health Insurance Department to a full-fledged 'Cục' (Department) is rooted in the increasing complexity of health insurance. New responsibilities related to policy formulation, ensuring the financial balance of the insurance fund, and enhancing the capacity of healthcare providers participating in the insurance scheme necessitate a more robust administrative structure. This upgrade reflects the growing importance of health insurance as a cornerstone of public healthcare access.

Simultaneously, the proposed Department of Information Technology and Digital Transformation aims to consolidate and centralize the burgeoning digital initiatives within the healthcare sector. Currently, digital transformation efforts are fragmented across various units, leading to potential overlaps and inefficiencies. Establishing a dedicated department will provide a unified command and control, ensuring a cohesive and effective rollout of digital health solutions across the country. This aligns with Vietnam's broader national strategy to embrace digital governance and technological advancement.

In line with the new Inspection Law of 2025, the Ministry also plans to abolish its existing Inspection Department. This streamlining measure is part of a broader effort to modernize administrative functions and align with updated legal frameworks. The proposed new structure, comprising 19 units including the two new departments, aims to create a more agile, efficient, and responsive Ministry of Health, better equipped to serve the nation's healthcare needs.