In response to violations in healthcare practices at certain medical establishments that have compromised patient safety, caused public concern, and damaged the reputation of the healthcare sector, on October 2, Minister Dao Hong Lan signed a directive requiring strengthened management and improved service quality at clinics and hospitals nationwide.

The directive highlights recent findings by authorities of numerous private clinics operating illegally without sufficient infrastructure, equipment, or qualified personnel, or using unlicensed individuals to falsely register medical operations.

Several beauty centers, cosmetic services, and specialty clinics employing foreign personnel have committed serious violations such as providing services outside their approved scope, misleading advertising, and false claims that confuse patients.

One notable case occurred in July 2025, when the Criminal Investigation Department of Da Nang Police prosecuted seven individuals working as managers and staff at Da Nang International General Clinic (located at 180 Tran Phu Street, Da Nang) for “deceiving customers.”

Authorities revealed that the clinic had registered some doctors on paper only, who never directly examined or treated patients. It also hired unqualified individuals lacking medical certifications - including some who hadn’t completed high school - to pose as doctors and issue treatment orders.

To enhance regulation and ensure quality healthcare, the Minister's directive requires provincial and municipal Departments of Health to publicly disclose information on all licensed medical facilities, including their scope of professional activities, operating hours, and the list of practicing professionals along with their roles.

Medical service fees must also be clearly posted, allowing patients to make informed choices and report any irregularities. Health departments are instructed to guide and assist the public in accessing this information before seeking care.

The directive also emphasizes strict supervision of clinical training practices. Departments must monitor and inspect all designated training institutions to ensure compliance with relevant standards.

Health departments must rigorously enforce regulations related to the issuance, renewal, suspension, or revocation of medical practice licenses, strictly following the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment and related legislation.

Additionally, they are to maintain effective communication channels - including hotlines, social media, online platforms, and other feedback systems - for receiving public complaints and concerns.

The directive calls for closer coordination with law enforcement to intensify inspections, monitor activities of healthcare establishments, and apply appropriate sanctions for violations. Punishments may include revoking practice certificates or operating licenses, suspending facility operations, or proposing penalties to higher authorities.

The Minister also urged hospitals and inpatient institutions under the Ministry of Health to strengthen professional ethics education, comply strictly with internal and professional regulations, and ensure responsible mentorship and supervision of medical trainees.

Facilities authorized to provide training must meet their responsibilities for overseeing, evaluating, and verifying the practical experience of trainees in accordance with the law.

Vo Thu