vietnam Bolsters Hospital Capacity Ahead of 2026 Lunar New Year Holiday
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Vietnam’s healthcare system is preparing for a surge in demand during the 2026 Lunar New Year, also known as Tết, with hospitals increasing operating room availability and bolstering emergency medical services. The proactive measures, announced on February 8th, aim to ensure quality care amidst heightened activity during the traditionally busy holiday period.
Nationwide Preparations Underway
Driven by directives from the Party Central Committee,the Prime Minister,and the Ministry of Health,hospitals across Vietnam are implementing extensive plans to strengthen their capacity to respond to medical emergencies. A senior official stated that the preparations are in direct response to anticipated increases in incidents related to travel,festivities,and seasonal illnesses. These directives — specifically, Party Central Committee Directive No. 55, Prime Minister Directive no. 36, and Ministry of Health Directive No. 3 — emphasize a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Tết party for all citizens.
24/7 Emergency Response System
A key component of the preparation involves establishing a continuous, 24/7 mission system operating across four critical levels. These include dedicated leadership missions, rapid hotline information processing, specialized professional missions, and robust administrative and logistics missions, all supported by comprehensive security and self-defense protocols. Hospitals are also mandated to post detailed staff rosters in each department and office to ensure adequate coverage throughout the holiday.
Resource Allocation and Emergency Planning
hospitals are proactively securing essential resources, including sufficient manpower, vital medicines, adequate supplies of blood and blood products, intravenous fluids, and necessary medical equipment and oxygen. Preparation is also focused on expanding hospital bed capacity to accommodate a potential influx of patients, notably those suffering from traffic accidents, fires, injuries, and food poisoning.
efforts are also being made to mitigate the impact of common winter and spring infectious diseases, with a focus on timely treatment to minimize complications and mortality. Furthermore, hospitals are developing detailed emergency plans to address potential large-scale incidents, including accidents, poisonings, and mass casualty events. Recognizing the increased public gatherings during Tết, hospitals are also creating specific response plans for popular tourist attractions, performance venues, and event locations.
Compassionate Care and data Reporting
Beyond emergency preparedness, the Ministry of health is emphasizing compassionate care for all patients, with particular attention given to economically disadvantaged individuals and those eligible for government assistance. Hospitals are also organizing visits and celebrations for patients receiving treatment during the lunar New Year period.
To monitor the effectiveness of these preparations, hospitals are required to submit daily reports on emergency care and medical treatment data through the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s online reporting system. Preparation status reports for the Lunar new year, based on data collected by February 12th, are due by 8 a.m. on February 13th. Daily online reports will then be submitted from February 14th through February 23rd.Any remarkable circumstances are to be reported promptly via a dedicated hotline.
Surprise Inspections to Ensure Readiness
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to conduct surprise inspections of hospitals and healthcare institutions nationwide to verify their readiness and operational capabilities in the lead-up to and during the Lunar New Year holiday. This proactive measure underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy Tết for all Vietnamese citizens.
