Vital Lifeline: Health Insurance and Lunar New Year Gifts Bring Hope to Vietnamese Families
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A new initiative is providing crucial healthcare access and festive cheer to vulnerable communities in Vietnam, delivering much-needed relief during the Lunar New Year season. Recently, 100 health insurance cards and 100 Lunar New Year gift packages – each valued at 1 million dong in gifts and cash – were distributed to low-income households, families emerging from poverty, the elderly, and individuals facing hardship in Phuoc Thanh commune.
bridging the healthcare Gap in Phuoc Thanh
This program directly addresses a critical need for affordable healthcare in Phuoc Thanh Village.For many residents, the cost of medical care presents an insurmountable barrier, forcing them to forgo essential check-ups and treatment. The distribution of health insurance cards represents a significant step towards ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for those most in need.
The impact of this support is particularly profound for families struggling with chronic illness and disability. Bui Thi Han, a 39-year-old mother from Nam Dinh Province, exemplifies this challenge.While her husband and two children are already covered by health insurance, Ms. Han had previously been unable to afford coverage, prioritizing essential family expenses. Her husband’s neurological disease requires frequent, costly trips for treatment, and their eldest son lives with a disability.
“I’ve been worried about my health for years, but I couldn’t even think of going for a checkup as of the cost,” Ms. han shared, her voice filled with emotion.”I’m so happy that I received my health insurance card today! Soon I’m going to go and get a checkup.”
A Season of Giving and renewed Hope
Beyond healthcare, the lunar New Year gift packages offer a vital boost to families during a traditionally celebratory – and frequently enough financially straining – time. The packages, containing gifts and cash equivalent to 1 million dong, provide a measure of financial relief and allow families to participate more fully in the festivities.
The program’s benefits extend to individuals like Nguyen Van Se, 58, and his daughter, Nguyen Thao Anh, 24. Both Mr. Se, who works as a farmer and takes on odd jobs, and Ms. Tao An, who recently lost her job, were previously uninsured. Receiving a health insurance card is expected to considerably improve their family’s financial stability.
Similarly, Dang kim Yan, 58, a day laborer, confessed to delaying necessary health check-ups due to the cost of insurance premiums. “This health insurance card is a lifeline for her,” a representative stated, “and allows her to take care of her health with peace of mind going forward.” Ms. Yan had recently experienced sleep disorders and headaches,but had been forced to reduce the frequency of her visits to a private hospital due to expenses.
Expanding Access Through Extensive Care
The initiative went beyond simply distributing cards and gifts. Anbin Hospital provided free health screenings, counseling, and medication to local residents as part of the program. Ngo Van Nam, 60, was observed receiving instructions on proper medication usage. These additional services further enhance the program’s impact,promoting preventative care and overall well-being.
Mr. Phan Hong An, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the importance of these efforts. “Projects such as donating health insurance cards,providing health checkups,distributing medicines,and giving Lunar New Year gifts are very meaningful activities that provide health insurance cards and Lunar New Year gifts to neighbors in need,and contribute to securing a social safety net and taking care of people’s health,” he said.
He further highlighted the program’s role in fostering national unity and compassion, aligning with the nation’s commitment to “leaving no one behind.” Residents of Phuoc Thanh commune returned home with a renewed sense of hope, carrying not only gifts but also the promise of a healthier and more secure future.
