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Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage

The Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage systematically documents the reforms of its member countries and other countries that have expanded health coverage through demand-side financing. The case studies contained in these pages are brief, comparative and modular in nature, describing the key highlights and technical features of each program.


Compare various dimensions of country reform efforts using our interactive tool.


Program Primary source of funding Secondary source of funding Contributing Populations Types of Contributions Funding
Vietnam: Compulsory and Voluntary Health Insurance Schemes
  • General government revenues
  • None
  • Formal Sector
  • Premiums

The central Vietnamese government is responsible for financing the bulk of the cost. Provincial governments, however, also contribute a smaller percentage of funds to the program. Poor beneficiaries do not pay premiums and are exempt from copayments. The entire cost of the scheme, 4.5% of minimum wage, is covered by revenues from the state budget.

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The central Vietnamese government is responsible for financing the bulk of the cost. Provincial governments, however, also contribute a smaller percentage of funds to the program. Poor beneficiaries do not pay premiums and are exempt from copayments. The entire cost of the scheme, 4.5% of minimum wage, is covered by revenues from the state budget.

Funding for Vietnam’s various universal coverage schemes varies greatly by population segment. The following presents an overview of each program’s financing:

Compulsory program (CHI)

  • Pensioners: 4.5% of monthly allowances, paid by VSS with subsidies from state budget.
  • Meritorious persons, etc.: 4.5% of minimum wage, paid from state budget.
  • Formal sector workers and civil servants: 4.53% salary, 1.5% paid by worker, 3% by employer.
  • Insurance for the Poor: 4.5% of minimum wage, paid from state budget.
  • Voluntary program (VHI): 4.5% of minimum wage.

Note that when the insurance program was initially introduced, there was no cost sharing. In 1998, cost sharing was introduced, with a 20 percent coinsurance rate but no deductible. In 2005, the 20 percent coinsurance rate was eliminated, only to be reintroduced again since January 1, 2010. Copayment is exempted for some groups, such as people of merit.