Digital transformation in public healthcare is enhancing health equity, with Bac Ninh's "Health Equity - For a Healthier Vietnam by 2025" program marking a milestone toward proactive, smart, and sustainable healthcare for all.
Smart healthcare, also known as digital health, reflects the Vietnamese health sector's commitment to leveraging information and communication technologies to improve the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of healthcare services. The goal is to build a modern, connected, and intelligent health system that reduces errors, saves time, and lowers costs for both patients and providers.
On Aug. 2, over 1,000 residents of Bac Ninh received free health check-ups, screenings, and consultations during the launch of the "Health Equity - For a Healthier Vietnam by 2025" program. The event was co-organized by the Ministry of Health, the Vietnam Young Physicians Association, the Bac Ninh Provincial People's Committee, AstraZeneca Vietnam, and other partners. It is part of the Bac Ninh Smart Healthcare Development Plan 2021-2030.
| Delegates joining the launching ceremony of the "Health Equity - For a Healthier Vietnam by 2025" program in Bac Ninh on Aug. 2, 2025. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam |
Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan highlighted that the participation of multiple stakeholders signals a strategic shift in Vietnam's healthcare - from treatment to prevention, from passive to proactive care, and from fragmented services to integrated, people-centered solutions.
He referenced General Secretary To Lam's guidance: "Strive to ensure every citizen receives a health check-up at least once a year," underscoring the importance of early public health intervention and inclusive care.
The program marks an important step in affirming Bac Ninh's pioneering role in implementing the province's Smart Healthcare Development Plan, with a focus on community health for 2021-2030. The initiative seeks to accelerate digital transformation in public healthcare and ensure equitable access to advanced medical services, especially at the grassroots level.
In partnership with AstraZeneca, key components of the project include establishing a national platform for digitized population health data, applying AI to manage non-communicable disease (NCD) risks, and restructuring grassroots healthcare to become multifunctional, interconnected, and prevention-focused.
During the event, more than 1,000 Bac Ninh residents received free medical check-ups, NCD screenings, and personalized health consultations. Local healthcare professionals were trained in AI applications for disease screening and management, marking progress in the digital transformation of grassroots healthcare.
This program is part of broader public health initiatives led by the Ministry of Health and supported by AstraZeneca Vietnam, the Department of Medical Services Administration, and the Vietnam Young Physicians Association. These initiatives include: CareMe-Love Yourself: Communication, screening, and management of NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes; Digital Transformation for Lung Health: Utilizing technology and AI for early detection of asthma, COPD, tuberculosis, and lung cancer at the community level; and Health Equity for Lung Health: Supporting development of the Ministry of Health's Action Plan for Lung Health to improve public awareness, early diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and management of lung diseases in Vietnam.
| Atul Tandon, Country President of AstraZeneca Vietnam. Photo courtesy of AstraZeneca Vietnam |
Atul Tandon, Country President of AstraZeneca Vietnam, stated that as a leading biopharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca is committed not only to innovative treatments but also to strengthening health systems, promoting digital transformation, and supporting sustainable development in Vietnam.
"Through digital transformation and AI-powered solutions, we are building an integrated healthcare ecosystem where patients, regardless of location or circumstance, can access timely diagnoses and advanced treatments," said Atul.
He expressed confidence that the program will serve as a model for other provinces in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, illustrating how public-private partnerships can deliver scalable, sustainable healthcare solutions that benefit communities.
The program's broad partnership, including the Ministry of Health, Vietnam Young Physicians Association, Bac Ninh People's Committee, UNDP, the Swedish Embassy, Siemens, and OneMedic, demonstrates the collaborative efforts necessary to drive transformative healthcare change.
Tandon concluded by emphasizing AstraZeneca's over 30-year commitment to Vietnam, highlighting the company's role as a dedicated, long-term partner alongside the Vietnamese people and healthcare system in building a healthier, more prosperous future.