Vietnam launches National Health Day to shift focus to prevention

Addressing the event, Trinh Van Quyet, head of the Party Central Commitee's Commission for Communications, Education and Mass Mobilization, said: “The Politburo has designated April 7 each year as National Health Day. 2026 marks the inaugural year of this initiative. This is not just a campaign launch, but a strategic shift, from a treatment-centered approach to one that prioritizes prevention as the core, fundamental, and long-term focus, placing people’s health at the center of national development policies.”

Mr. Quyet called on authorities at all levels and sectors to actively build and promote a “culture of health” throughout society. He stressed the importance of strengthening grassroots healthcare systems to ensure all citizens have timely, easy access to quality primary healthcare services.

He also urged faster digital transformation in the health sector, including the application of Big Data and AI in health management, and the effective rollout of electronic health records.

Following the ceremony, more than 300 doctors, nurses, and medical staff from 19 central, local, private, and military healthcare facilities provided free consultations and health screenings for around 5,000 people. Over 1,000 participants also experienced automated screening tools and AI-supported systems that analyze health indicators, assess risks of non-communicable diseases, and offer personalized care recommendations.