Ha Long Bay, Vietnam



Health Care in Ha Long Bay

By Joshua Wood, LPC

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Summary: Learn about the health system in Ha Long Bay: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Ha Long Bay.

The healthcare system in Ha Long Bay, consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for their medical needs.

Vietnam's Healthcare System

Vietnam's public healthcare system, known as the Vietnam Social Security (VSS), is available to both locals and foreigners. However, public hospitals in Ha Long Bay are not typically recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries. Public hospitals in the area can be crowded, and the quality of care may not be up to the standards that many foreigners are accustomed to. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Vietnam, but many prefer to use private hospitals for their medical needs. Private hospitals in Ha Long Bay are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they offer a higher standard of care and more modern facilities.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Ha Long Bay

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Ha Long Bay include:

  • Vinmec International Hospital (private) - located in Ha Long City
  • Quang Ninh General Hospital (public) - located in Ha Long City
  • Ha Long Medical Center (public) - located in Ha Long City
In case of specialized medical care or surgeries, expats in Ha Long Bay may need to travel to Hanoi, which is approximately 3-4 hours away by car. Some of the hospitals in Hanoi include Vinmec International Hospital, Hanoi French Hospital, and Viet Duc Hospital.

Emergency Services in Ha Long Bay

There are ambulance services available in Ha Long Bay. To call for an ambulance, dial 115. However, response times can vary, and there may be delays in some cases. It is important to be prepared for potential delays and have a backup plan in case of an emergency.

Health Insurance Companies in Ha Long Bay

Some popular private health insurance companies in Ha Long Bay include Bao Viet Insurance, PVI Insurance, and BIDV Insurance. These companies offer various health insurance plans for locals and foreigners. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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