Speaking at the ceremony, the deputy minister of health emphasised the crucial role of the project in effectively implementing telemedicine services, thereby narrowing the gap in healthcare access among different regions.
At the event, Dr. Duong Huy Luong, Deputy Director of the Department of Medical Services Administration and project manager, stated that with support from JICA, the project will not only focus on professional and clinical aspects, such as remote consultation and online training, but will also address core operational components to ensure long-term effectiveness and sustainability. It is more than just a technical assistance programme; it represents a strategic step toward shaping the future of healthcare digital transformation in Viet Nam.
From JICA’s side, Kobayashi Yosuke, Chief Representative of the JICA Office in Viet Nam, expressed confidence that the close cooperation among the Ministry of Health, Lao Cai Province, JICA, and healthcare institutions would be a key factor in the project’s success. He also expressed high expectations for the leadership of the Department of Medical Services Administration in coordinating and effectively implementing project activities.
At the same event, representatives from the Department of Medical Services Administration provided an overview of the project’s context, objectives, activities, and implementation details. Dr. Tanaka Taketo, Chief Advisor of the project, presented the activity plan for 2025.
Stakeholders, including the Department of Medical Services Administration, the Department of Health Insurance, the National Health Information Centre, and leaders from the Lao Cai Provincial Department of Health, also spoke to affirm their roles and responsibilities in executing the project.
The project, approved by the minister of health under Decision No. 2598/QD-BYT (dated September 26, 2022), is part of the national strategy encompassing the "Digital Health Transformation Programme until 2025, with orientation to 2030" and the "National Strategy on Protection, Care and Improvement of People's Health through 2030, with a vision to 2045."
Using a doctor-to-doctor (D-to-D) model, the project aims to support clinical decision-making, facilitate knowledge transfer across healthcare levels, and improve the quality of healthcare services, especially in rural and mountainous areas.
Yen Bai Province (now Lao Cai Province), which is known for its mountainous terrain and healthcare challenges, has been selected as the pilot site for implementing the telemedicine model. Practical activities carried out here will lay the foundation for nationwide replication in the future.
Closing the ceremony, Yoshida Tomoya, Senior Deputy Director of the Human Development Department at JICA, praised the close collaboration among stakeholders and reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to supporting Viet Nam in promoting healthcare equity. He expressed his hope that the outcomes of the project will serve as an important foundation for expanding the telemedicine model nationwide.
The kick-off ceremony concluded with a shared commitment among all parties to work closely together for the successful implementation of the project and to achieve long-term impact.
