The Mental Healthcare Industry in Vietnam
The mental healthcare industry in Vietnam is still developing. The government has established the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP); however, industry observers have noted that the NMHP only covers approximately 30 percent of the country, and uses a very narrow list of mental illness.
While the government estimates that approximately 15 percent of the population requires mental health care services, independent research suggests that the figure is closer to 20 to 30 percent of the population. This is a major service gap for NGOs and foreign businesses.
International NGOs and foreign businesses that want to cover this service gap, and contribute to the healthcare system, need an intricate approach when entering the country. That begins with understanding the barriers that have prevented Vietnam’s existing mental health system from developing its capacity.
This is an exerpt from an article appearing in Vietnam Briefing, a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. For the latest economic, regulatory and business news from Vietnam, visit vietnam-briefing.com.