Vietnam's telehealth market continues its upward trend

The report pointed out that the population in Vietnam is ageing, with a growing number of elderly citizens. As individuals age, they often require more frequent medical consultations and monitoring for chronic conditions. Telehealth provides a convenient way for elderly patients to access healthcare without the need for frequent physical visits to healthcare facilities.

The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions, is also rising. Patients with chronic conditions often require ongoing care and monitoring, which can be efficiently managed through telehealth platforms. This helps in early intervention and preventing complications.

In addition, Vietnam is witnessing substantial growth in internet penetration, with more people gaining access to high-speed internet. This widespread connectivity is a fundamental enabler for telehealth, as it allows healthcare providers and patients to engage in remote consultations, share medical information, and access health-related resources online.

The widespread use of smartphones in the country is making telehealth more conveniently accessible. Patients can easily download telehealth apps, receive medical advice, and schedule virtual appointments using their smartphones. This is democratising healthcare access, especially in urban areas.

Furthermore, governing agencies in Vietnam are establishing a regulatory framework to specifically address telehealth. These regulations will provide legal guidance on telehealth practices, licensing requirements for telehealth providers, and standards for data security and patient privacy. Having clear rules and regulations instils confidence in both healthcare providers and patients.

Such government initiatives are also streamlining the licensing and certification process for telehealth providers. This simplification reduces barriers to entry and encourages more healthcare professionals to offer telehealth services, thereby increasing the availability of telehealth options for patients.

Rise of vital telehealth services providing much-needed access Telehealth startups are popping up more than ever before, aiming to innovate the healthcare sector and cater to the huge demand.

Healthcare pros call for legal advances in telehealth Despite strong interest among medtech businesses and hospitals, the legal framework for telehealth performance in Vietnam remains incomplete, making the amendment to the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment an ever-urgent need.

Sumitomo to invest in Vietnam's Insmart to offer digital healthcare services Sumitomo Corporation, a Japanese trading firm, will invest in a major healthcare intermediary in Vietnam with the goal of launching new digital services in a region where costs are growing and there is uneven access to doctors.