Doctor visits a sick nun. (Photo: Minh Thy)

The Hiep Binh ward health station in Ho Chi Minh City is often busy from early morning with elderly residents queuing for free medical check-ups, blood pressure measurements, ultrasound scans, and blood tests.

65-year-old Tran Dinh Hoa said he receives general health check-ups and advice from doctors on diet and exercise. “This policy really benefits older people like me. Many people in difficult circumstances can’t afford medical examinations. This State policy allows us to get free medical check-ups,” said Mr. Hoa.

Deputy head of the Hiep Binh ward health station Dr. Nguyen Gia Phuong said elderly people should get a health check-up at least once a year that includes a clinical examination, ultrasound scans, and blood tests for glucose, lipids, and kidney function. The health station manages patients’ electronic health records of non-communicable diseases, chronic conditions, and insurance-covered medicines on the municipal Department of Health’s system.

“The health station receives professional support from Gia Dinh People’s Hospital and Thu Duc Regional General Hospital. For elderly patients with complex health conditions, we coordinate with higher-level hospitals for consultations and treatment, and may transfer the patient to a higher-level hospital,” according to Dr. Phuong.

Doctors at local health stations offer home care for elderly people who live alone or are unable to travel. 68-year-old Ngo Thi Cam Lan says doctors come to her home to examine her 94-year-old mother. “The ward authorities announce a health check-up timetable for elderly people. My mother can’t travel, so doctors come to examine her at home. Regular check-ups are very important to detect and treat illnesses early,” said Mrs. Lan.

Ho Chi Minh City piloted a free health check-up program for elderly people in 2023 and has expanded it citywide since 2024. Over the past two years, the city has provided medical check-ups to 526,000 people age 60 or older.