Vietnam mandates digital health records to boost healthcare accessibility

Da Nang hospitals under the city's Department of Health have been ordered to cease using paper medical records effective November 1, marking a significant step in Vietnam's digital health transformation. The transition will extend to hospitals managed by government ministries and sectors, along with private medical facilities, which must complete the shift by January 1, 2027.

The digitalisation initiative represents a broader effort to modernise Vietnam's healthcare infrastructure and improve service delivery. By replacing traditional paper-based systems with electronic records, hospitals aim to streamline patient management, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance the overall quality of medical care.

The phased implementation timeline allows healthcare facilities across different administrative levels adequate preparation for the transition. Da Nang's early adoption positions the city as a pilot for best practices that may inform the nationwide rollout among ministry-level and private healthcare providers.

This move aligns with Vietnam's strategic focus on advancing high-quality, specialised healthcare services while strengthening cooperation with international partners on healthcare technologies and practices. The digital shift is expected to facilitate better coordination between healthcare facilities and improve patient access to their medical information.