Vietnam's New Health Sector Allowances Set to Launch in 2026

Post by : Shakul

Vietnam is set to enhance support for its healthcare workforce through a groundbreaking policy. Government Decree No. 192/2026/ND-CP introduces a comprehensive system of special allowances and support payments for healthcare professionals that will come into force on July 15, 2026. This policy aims to elevate working conditions, honor professional contributions, and stimulate ongoing improvement within the public healthcare sector.

The decree delineates various categories of financial support, which include allowances for on-call duties, surgical procedures, epidemic control, and monthly benefits for village health workers and midwives. It encompasses a wide array of healthcare personnel across public hospitals, community health units, military medical services, social assistance facilities, forensic organizations, and public security health sectors.

One notable change is the allocation of allowances for healthcare professionals on 24-hour duty shifts, where payments will vary between 70,000 and 325,000 Vietnamese dong according to the type of medical institution. Employees in high-intensity departments will receive heightened payments, with additional rates for tasks conducted during weekends, holidays, and the Lunar New Year.

The decree also enhances compensation for medical professionals engaged in surgical and specialized procedures. Lead surgeons, anesthesiologists, and essential medical staff can claim allowances that range from 100,000 to 560,000 Vietnamese dong per operation based on the procedure's complexity. Supporting medical personnel and surgical aides will also receive financial incentives in line with their duties during medical procedures.

Moreover, a unique allowance framework is set for individuals engaged in epidemic response and disease management. Healthcare workers directly involved in outbreak investigations, testing, treatment, vaccination efforts, and emergency response will qualify for daily incentive payments. The top epidemic-control allowance can reach 420,000 Vietnamese dong per day for personnel working on the front lines of Group A infectious disease outbreaks.

The government has also prioritized strengthening grassroots healthcare services. Village health workers and midwives will receive monthly support throughout their service period, with support levels ranging from 0.5 to 0.7 times the national basic salary, depending on local demographics and geographical circumstances. Officials anticipate that this initiative will improve healthcare access in rural, remote, and economically disadvantaged regions.

This new policy underscores Vietnam's dedication to improving healthcare services and acknowledging the commitment of its frontline medical workforce. By elevating financial support and expanding benefits across various sectors of healthcare, the government aims to bolster workforce stability, enhance service quality, and reinforce the nation’s preparedness for future public health emergencies.