Emergency medical care in Vietnam operates through national emergency number 115, though private hospitals in major cities offer faster response with dedicated ambulance services and English-speaking staff. Foreign teachers should expect emergency room admission fees ranging $20-66 USD at private facilities, with costs varying significantly between public and international hospitals. Major teaching hubs including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang provide JCI-accredited facilities with 24/7 emergency departments.
Understanding Vietnam’s emergency medical infrastructure and having verified contact information will help you respond effectively when urgent care is needed. This guide provides officially confirmed hospital contacts, realistic cost expectations, and practical guidance for accessing emergency services across Vietnam’s major cities.
What Emergency Number Should I Call in Vietnam?
Call 115 for Vietnam’s national emergency medical services, available nationwide for ambulance response. However, public ambulance services have significant limitations including slow response times, language barriers (paramedics typically speak Vietnamese only), and basic equipment that may not meet international standards.
National Emergency Service: 115
Vietnam’s official emergency number connects to public ambulance services:
- Coverage: Nationwide availability
- Language: Vietnamese only – paramedics rarely speak English
- Equipment: Basic stabilization capabilities
- Cost: Free public service
- Limitations: Response times described as “generally slow” in most sources, with equipment potentially substandard
Private Emergency Alternatives
*Ho Chi Minh City – Dial 9999
HCMC operates a private 24/7 Emergency Medical Response Service accessible by dialing 9999 from any phone. This service provides faster response than the national 115 system, with better-equipped ambulances and improved English language support.
Private Hospital Direct Contact
For medical emergencies, contacting private international hospitals directly often provides faster, more reliable emergency response with English-speaking medical teams. Specific contact numbers are provided in the city-by-city sections below.
Alternative Transport Options
Many expatriates and foreign residents use taxi services (traditional taxis or Grab) to reach private hospitals during non-critical emergencies. This approach can be faster than waiting for ambulance services in traffic-heavy urban areas, provided the patient’s condition allows safe sitting transport.
For comprehensive guidance on navigating Vietnam’s major cities including transportation access to medical facilities, review our cost comparison between Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang.
How Much Does Emergency Room Care Cost in Vietnam?
Emergency room admission at private hospitals in Vietnam costs $20-66 USD (500,000-1.8 million VND) for initial consultation, excluding tests, treatments, or medications. Total emergency care costs vary significantly based on facility type, treatment required, and patient insurance status.
Verified Emergency Care Costs
| Service Type | Cost Range (USD) | Cost Range (VND) | Source Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ER Admission Fee | $20-66 | 500,000-1.8M | Entry consultation only |
| Public Hospital Room | $20/night | ~800,000-2M | Shared accommodations |
| Private Hospital Room | $100-400+/night | 3-10M+ | Single room with amenities |
| ICU Care | $259/24 hours | ~7M | Excludes medications, procedures |
| General Consultation | $7-25 | 200,000-700,000 | Higher for English-speaking doctors |
Important Cost Variables:
- Facility Type: Public hospitals offer lowest fees but limited English support; international private hospitals charge premium rates for English-speaking staff and modern equipment.
- Foreign Patient Pricing: Many private facilities maintain separate pricing for international patients. The same consultation costing Vietnamese patients 300,000 VND may cost foreigners 500,000-700,000 VND when routed through “international clinic” sections.
- Payment Requirements: Most Vietnamese hospitals require upfront payment or substantial deposit before treatment. Hospitals may retain patient passports as collateral until bills are paid in full.
- Insurance Coverage: Direct billing arrangements exist only with specific insurers at select facilities. Verify coverage before treatment to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Medical Evacuation Costs
For serious conditions requiring treatment beyond Vietnam’s capabilities, medical evacuation costs range $15,000-50,000+ USD depending on destination and transport method (air ambulance vs. commercial medical escort). Common evacuation destinations include Bangkok, Singapore, and home countries.
Which Hospitals in Hanoi Provide 24/7 Emergency Services?
Hanoi’s international-standard emergency facilities include Hanoi French Hospital, Family Medical Practice, Vinmec Times City International Hospital, and International SOS Clinic, all offering 24/7 emergency services with English-speaking staff.
Hanoi Emergency Care Directory – Verified Contacts
| Hospital Name | Address | Emergency Phone | General Phone | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanoi French Hospital | No.1 Phuong Mai Street, Kim Lien District, Hanoi, Vietnam | (+84-24) 3574-1111 | (+84-24) 3577-1100 | U.S. Embassy |
| Family Medical Practice | 298 I Kim Ma, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi | (024) 3843 0748 | Same | FMP Official + U.S. Embassy |
| Vinmec Times City | 458 Minh Khai Street, Vinh Tuy Ward, Hai Ba Trung | (+84 24) 3974-4333 | (+84-24) 3974-3556 | U.S. Embassy |
| International SOS Clinic (Rebranded as Raffles Medical Clinics) | 51 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho Ward, Hanoi | (024) 3934 0666 | Same | Multiple sources |
Detailed Facility Information
Hanoi French Hospital (HFH)
- Accreditation: JCI certified
- Capacity: 220 beds, tertiary care center
- Staff: International and Vietnamese physicians with multilingual capabilities
- Specialties: Full range including emergency, general surgery, cardiology, orthopedics, obstetrics & gynecology
- Ambulance: Private ambulance service available 24/7
- Contact: Main (84-24) 3577 1100 | Emergency (84-24) 3574 1111
Family Medical Practice Hanoi
- Type: International clinic with 24/7 emergency response capability
- Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-17:30, Sat 8:30-12:30 (24/7 emergency line active)
- Staff: Foreign-trained physicians, full English capability
- Network: Part of nationwide Family Medical Practice system with locations in Hanoi, HCMC, and Da Nang
- Emergency Contact: (024) 3843 0748 (24/7)
- Website: vietnammedicalpractice.com
Vinmec Times City International Hospital
- Accreditation: JCI certified – first comprehensive hospital in Vietnam to receive JCI accreditation
- Opened: 2012, first hospital in Vinmec Health System
- Area: 24,670 m² across 7 floors plus 2 basements
- Capacity: 250 beds
- Staff: Team of approximately 200 doctors including international physicians
- Contact: Main (+84-24) 3974-3556 | Emergency (+84-24) 3974-4333
- Email: info@vinmec.com
International SOS Clinic
- Focus: Emergency services and medical evacuation coordination
- Capability: Coordinates medical evacuations to Bangkok, Singapore, and other destinations
- Staff: International physicians and emergency medical specialists
- Insurance: Works with major international insurance providers
- Contact: (+84-24) 3934-0555
Public Hospital Option
Bach Mai Hospital
- Address: 78 Giai Phong, Dong Da District
- Phone: (+84-24) 3869-3731
- Type: Major public teaching hospital
- Language: Vietnamese only – translator required
- Cost: Significantly lower than private facilities
- Note: Expect crowded conditions and long wait times
Where Can I Find Emergency Care in Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City’s leading emergency facilities include FV Hospital, Family Medical Practice clinics, and Vinmec Central Park, all providing 24/7 emergency services with JCI or international accreditation and comprehensive English language support.
Ho Chi Minh City Emergency Directory – Verified Contacts
| Hospital Name | Address | Emergency Phone | General Phone | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FV Hospital | 6 Nguyen Luong Bang, District 7 (Phu My Hung) | +(84) 28 3511 3500 | +84 28 5411 3333 | FV Official Website + DFAT |
| Family Medical Practice Diamond Plaza | 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh District | *9999 | +84 28 3744 9000 | FMP Official |
| Family Medical Practice D2 (Thao Dien) | The Manor 1, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Ward 22, Binh Thanh | *9999 | +84 28 3514 0757 | DFAT 2024 |
Detailed Facility Information
FV Hospital (Franco-Vietnamese Hospital)
- Accreditation: JCI certified (three consecutive certifications)
- Capacity: 220 beds, full tertiary care
- Established: 2003
- Staff: 150 full-time doctors, 1,000 total staff; serves approximately 500,000 patient visits annually
- Emergency Department: 24/7 Accident & Emergency with dedicated entrance, right side of hospital ground floor, F Building
- Languages: French, English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Khmer
- Specialties: Full range including emergency surgery, cardiology, gastroenterology, oncology, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology
- Notable Policy: “Save first, bill later” approach for critical emergencies
- Insurance: Accepts direct billing from 100+ insurance providers; accepts Vietnamese social health insurance (BHYT) as of July 2025
- Contact: Emergency +(84) 28 3511 3500 | Main +84 28 5411 3333
- Email: information@fvhospital.com
Family Medical Practice – HCMC Locations
The Family Medical Practice operates multiple clinics in Ho Chi Minh City, all connected to the **9999 emergency response system:
- Diamond Plaza Clinic: 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Binh Thanh District
- Thao Dien/D2 Clinic: The Manor 1, 91 Nguyen Huu Canh, Ward 22, Binh Thanh
- Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-17:00, Sat 8:30-12:00 (varies by location)
- Emergency Response: 24/7 via *9999 hotline
- Features: 24-hour observation facilities, multilingual staff, private ambulance fleet
- Website: vietnammedicalpractice.com
*Emergency Hotline 9999: This dedicated emergency number connects to Family Medical Practice’s 24/7 emergency response system in Ho Chi Minh City, providing rapid ambulance dispatch with intensive care capabilities.
Geographic Access Recommendations
For residents of Districts 1, 3, or Binh Thanh:
- Family Medical Practice locations provide fastest access
- Dial *9999 for emergency response
For residents of District 2, 7, or Phu My Hung:
- FV Hospital offers most comprehensive emergency services
- Located in Phu My Hung residential area, District 7
For complete information about international medical facilities across Vietnam including detailed service descriptions, consult our international hospitals directory.
What Emergency Medical Services Are Available in Da Nang?
Da Nang provides emergency care through Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital, Family Medical Practice Da Nang, and Hoan My Da Nang Hospital, all offering 24/7 emergency services with international standards and English-speaking medical staff.
Da Nang Emergency Directory – Verified Contacts
| Hospital Name | Address | Emergency Phone | Accreditation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinmec Da Nang | 30 Thang 4 Street, Hoa Cuong Bac, Hai Chau | (+84-236) 3711-111 | JCI | U.S. Embassy |
| Family Medical Practice Da Nang | 96-98 Nguyen Van Linh, Hai Chau District | 0913 917 303 (24/7) | International Standards | FMP Official |
| Hoan My Da Nang | 291 Nguyen Van Linh, Thanh Khe District | (+84-236) 3650-676 | ACHSI (2024) | Multiple sources |
Detailed Facility Information
Vinmec Da Nang International Hospital
- Opened: 2017
- Accreditation: JCI certified, part of Vinmec Healthcare System
- Area: 37,000+ m² across 10 floors
- Capacity: 222 beds
- Staff: Doctors trained in U.S., Japan, Singapore, and India
- Emergency: 24/7 emergency department with full capabilities
- Languages: English, Japanese, Korean, Russian, French (interpretation services)
- Specialties: Interventional cardiology, emergency medicine, neurology, orthopedics, diagnostic imaging
- Recognition: “Vietnam’s Most Improved Local Hospital” (Hospital Management Asia Awards, 2018)
- Contact: (+84-236) 3711-111
- Website: vinmec.com
Family Medical Practice Da Nang
- Network: Part of nationwide FMP system since 1997
- Address: 96-98 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Hai Chau District
- Phone: +84 236 3582 699
- 24/7 Emergency: 0913 917 303
- Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-19:00, Sat 8:30-17:00, Sun 8:30-12:30
- Staff: Foreign-trained and Vietnamese physicians with full English capability
- Email: danang@vietnammedicalpractice.com
- Website: vietnammedicalpractice.com
Hoan My Da Nang Hospital
- Established: 2002
- Accreditation: ACHSI accredited (Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International, 2024)
- Network: Part of Hoan My Medical Corporation (15 hospitals, 2,800+ beds nationwide)
- Capacity: 360 beds (expanded from original 100)
- Specialties: Interventional cardiology, open-heart surgery (leading in Central Vietnam), orthopedics, neurology
- Laboratory: ISO 15189 accredited (2018)
- Contact: (+84-236) 3650-676
- Website: hoanmydanang.com
Regional Coverage Note
Da Nang serves as the medical hub for Central Vietnam, receiving referrals from Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh provinces, and Central Highlands areas. If teaching in Hue (approximately 90 minutes north) or Hoi An (approximately 30 minutes south), Da Nang facilities provide nearest international-standard emergency care.
Do Vietnam Hospitals Require Payment Before Emergency Treatment?
Yes, most Vietnamese hospitals require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treating non-life-threatening emergencies. Hospitals commonly hold patient passports as collateral until bills are paid in full. Payment requirements vary significantly between public and private facilities.
Payment Requirements by Facility Type
Private International Hospitals:
- Deposit Required: Substantial deposits (amounts vary by facility and procedure) required before treatment
- Passport Retention: Common practice – hospitals hold passport until full payment received
- Credit Cards: Accepted at international facilities (Visa, Mastercard)
- Direct Billing: Available ONLY if insurance company has pre-established agreement with specific hospital
- Payment Priority: Must pay before discharge; unpaid bills can result in passport retention and potential exit restrictions
Public Hospitals:
- Cash Payment: Payment required at registration before seeing doctor
- Credit Cards: Rarely accepted
- Lower Costs: Significantly cheaper than private facilities
- Language Barrier: Vietnamese only – translator essential
FV Hospital Exception
FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City operates a stated policy of “save first, bill later” for critical, life-threatening emergencies. However, payment is still required after stabilization and treatment.
Insurance Direct Billing
Confirmed Direct Billing Capabilities:
- FV Hospital: Works with 100+ insurers including major international providers; accepts Vietnamese social health insurance (BHYT) as of July 2025
- Vinmec Hospitals: Accepts major international and domestic insurers (verify specific policy)
- Family Medical Practice: Select international insurance policies accepted
Critical Requirements:
- Bring physical insurance card and policy documents
- Call insurer for pre-authorization when possible
- Confirm specific hospital accepts your insurer before treatment
- Understand coverage limits – hospital may require deposit if treatment exceeds limits
Essential Documents for Emergency Room
- Passport (original – may be retained until payment)
- Insurance card (physical copy + phone photo)
- Insurance policy documents
- Emergency contact information
- Current medication list
- Known allergy information
Legal Realities of Unpaid Bills
- Passport Retention: Legal practice until payment
- Exit Restrictions: Unpaid medical bills can result in exit ban from Vietnam
- No Charity Care: Vietnam hospitals are not required to provide free care
Emergency Financial Options:
- Embassy assistance for emergency funds transfer
- Western Union transfers from family (1-2 hour processing)
- Payment plan negotiation (FV Hospital now offers installment plans via VNPay)
- Medical evacuation insurance coverage if applicable
What Should I Do If I Need Medical Evacuation from Vietnam?
Contact International SOS or your health insurance emergency line immediately for medical evacuation services, which typically cost $15,000-50,000+ USD depending on destination and transport method. Medical evacuation requires insurance pre-authorization or upfront payment, with air ambulance departures typically occurring within 12-24 hours once approved.
Medical Evacuation Providers in Vietnam
International SOS
- Hanoi: (+84-24) 3934-0555
- Ho Chi Minh City: (+84-28) 3829-8520
- Services: Air ambulance, commercial medical escort, medical evacuation coordination
- Coverage: Global network spanning 90+ countries
- Insurance: Direct billing arrangements with major international insurers
Insurance Company Networks Most international health insurance policies include dedicated medical evacuation coordinators. Check policy documents for specific emergency contact numbers and coverage limits.
Common Medical Evacuation Conditions
Medical evacuation from Vietnam is typically recommended for:
- Complex cardiac conditions requiring specialized interventional procedures
- Severe neurological emergencies needing advanced neurosurgery
- Multi-organ trauma requiring intensive specialized care
- Advanced cancer treatments unavailable in Vietnam
- Premature birth complications requiring neonatal intensive care beyond available capabilities
- Conditions where Vietnamese medical infrastructure cannot provide adequate treatment
Evacuation Destinations and General Cost Ranges
Bangkok, Thailand:
- Most common destination
- Approximate distance: 2-hour flight
- Facilities: Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok Hospital
- Estimated costs: $15,000-25,000 USD (costs vary significantly based on specific circumstances)
Singapore:
- Advanced care destination
- Approximate distance: 3-4 hour flight
- Higher cost option: $25,000-40,000 USD range (estimates vary)
Home Country:
- Major medical emergencies
- Distance-dependent: $50,000-100,000+ USD potential range
- Most expensive option
Note: All cost figures are approximate estimates based on general industry information. Actual costs depend on specific medical condition, required equipment, staffing needs, and destination.
Insurance Coverage Requirements
Essential Policy Features:
- Medical evacuation coverage: minimum $50,000-100,000 USD recommended
- Repatriation coverage for return to home country
- Pre-existing condition considerations (often excluded unless specifically covered)
Verify Before Emergencies:
- Does policy include medical evacuation?
- What is the coverage limit?
- Which evacuation providers does insurer use?
- What is the 24/7 emergency hotline number?
- Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Evacuation Process Timeline
- Medical Assessment: Hospital determines patient requires treatment unavailable in Vietnam
- Insurance Authorization: Insurer reviews medical necessity and approves evacuation (critical step)
- Logistics Coordination: Evacuation company arranges air ambulance or commercial medical escort, confirms receiving hospital
- Transport: Patient stabilized and transported with medical team escort
Without Insurance: Full evacuation costs must be paid upfront via credit card or wire transfer before services commence.
How Can I Verify Hospital Quality and Accreditation?
Look for JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation, which indicates hospitals meet rigorous international quality standards through comprehensive three-year inspection cycles. In Vietnam, JCI-accredited facilities include multiple Vinmec hospitals, FV Hospital, and Hanoi French Hospital.
Verified International Accreditations
JCI-Accredited Hospitals in Vietnam:
- Vinmec Healthcare System: Multiple hospitals including Vinmec Times City (Hanoi), Vinmec Central Park (HCMC), Vinmec Da Nang – first private healthcare system in Vietnam with JCI certification
- FV Hospital (HCMC): Three consecutive JCI certifications
- Hanoi French Hospital: JCI certified
ACHSI Accreditation:
- Hoan My Da Nang Hospital: ACHSI accredited (Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International) as of 2024
Official Embassy Resources
U.S. Embassy Medical Assistance List:
- Website: vn.usembassy.gov/medical-assistance-2/
- Provides vetted hospital listings for Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other provinces
- Updated with verified contact information
Australian DFAT Hospital Contact List:
- Updated regularly with hospital details and contact information
- Available through Australian Embassy website: hcmc.vietnam.embassy.gov.au
Note: Embassy lists do not constitute endorsements of quality but verify basic operational standards and English-speaking capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Medical Care in Vietnam
Can I Use My Home Country Health Insurance in Vietnam?
Most domestic health plans from Western countries do NOT provide coverage in Vietnam, including U.S. Medicare, UK NHS, and Australian Medicare. Some international health insurance policies do cover Vietnam – check policy documents specifically for “overseas coverage” or “international coverage” sections listing covered countries.
Travel insurance purchased specifically for Vietnam trips typically covers emergency medical care. Expatriate health insurance designed for long-term residence abroad provides comprehensive coverage including both emergency and routine care.
If your policy covers Vietnam, verify whether:
- Direct billing arrangements exist with Vietnamese hospitals
- You must pay upfront and file for reimbursement later
- Medical evacuation is included in coverage
What If I Don’t Speak Vietnamese During an Emergency?
Private international hospitals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have English-speaking staff at reception areas, emergency departments, and among medical doctors. However, public hospitals and smaller clinics typically operate in Vietnamese only.
Practical Solutions:
- Bring a Vietnamese-speaking friend, colleague, or neighbor to public facilities
- Use translation apps (Google Translate camera function) for signs and written forms
- Save key medical phrases in Vietnamese on phone
- Contact insurance company emergency hotline for phone interpretation services
- U.S. citizens can contact U.S. Embassy for interpreter referrals in serious situations: Hanoi +84 24 3850 5000, HCMC +84 28 3520 4200
Are Counterfeit Medications a Concern in Vietnam?
Counterfeit medications exist in Vietnam primarily in street pharmacies and unlicensed outlets – NOT in reputable international hospital pharmacies. To minimize risk:
- Purchase medications from pharmacies attached to international hospitals (FV Hospital, Vinmec, Family Medical Practice)
- Always check expiration dates on packaging
- Verify packaging integrity: intact seals, clear printing, visible batch numbers
- Bring essential prescription medications from home country with doctor’s prescription (legal and safest option)
- Use hospital pharmacies which maintain longer shelf life and quality control
What Vaccinations Should Foreign Teachers Have?
Recommended vaccinations for Vietnam include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and current Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis. Additional considerations:
- Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended if teaching in rural areas
- Rabies: Consider for locations outside major cities
- COVID-19: Maintain current boosters
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Required only if arriving from endemic countries (parts of South America and Africa)
- Routine Vaccines: Ensure MMR, Varicella are current
Consult travel medicine clinics 6-8 weeks before departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses administered over several weeks. Family Medical Practice and International SOS clinics in Vietnam provide travel medicine consultations and vaccinations.
What If I Need Emergency Care Outside Major Cities?
Medical infrastructure weakens significantly outside Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. For teaching positions in smaller cities or rural areas:
- Identify the provincial hospital location (expect Vietnamese language only, basic equipment)
- Understand evacuation routes to nearest major city with international hospitals
- Arrange emergency transportation plan (private car or taxi – ambulances may be unavailable)
- Ensure comprehensive health insurance including medical evacuation coverage
- Stock essential prescription medications
- Be prepared for potential 2-4 hour travel to reach international-standard facilities
Employment in rural areas should include:
- Comprehensive health insurance with evacuation coverage minimum $100,000 USD
- Regular trips to major cities for routine health check-ups
- Clear emergency response protocols from employer
Prepare for Emergency Medical Care in Vietnam
Action Steps to Take Now:
- Save emergency numbers in phone contacts:
- National: 115
- HCMC Private: *9999
- Preferred hospital emergency lines (see city sections above)
- Verify health insurance coverage:
- Confirm Vietnam is covered country
- Check coverage limits and evacuation benefits
- Identify hospitals with direct billing arrangements
- Save insurance emergency hotline in phone
- Locate nearest international hospital:
- Identify 24/7 emergency facility near residence and workplace
- Save address in English and Vietnamese
- Consider pre-registration if available
- Prepare emergency documents:
- Take photos of passport, insurance card, prescriptions
- Save to phone and cloud storage
- Prepare emergency contact list
For comprehensive information about health insurance options, routine medical care, and staying healthy while teaching in Vietnam, explore additional resources in our Health & Insurance section.
