our Programs
Vietnam Health Clinic (VHC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare access for under-resourced communities in Vietnam. Through our programs, we provide essential medical services while fostering leadership and professional development among our student members.
Each year, VHC operates a two-week mobile health clinic, delivering comprehensive medical, dental, optometric, pharmaceutical, and therapeutic care to rural communities. With the support of student members, healthcare professionals, local healthcare providers, and volunteers, VHC has served over 17,000 patients over the past thirteen years.
A distinctive aspect of our clinic is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Student members work directly alongside healthcare professionals, gaining invaluable clinical experience while serving as personal interpreters for patients.
Beyond our mobile clinic, VHC is committed to long-term healthcare solutions through our Cataract Surgery Program and Hypertension Management Program, which provide sustainable treatment and support for chronic diseases affecting underserved populations.
mobile health clinic
primary care
Each patient that we see during our health clinic undergoes a general examination by one of our medical physicians. Patients are examined, diagnosed and prescribed with the proper treatment and medication if needed. Physicians also discuss lifestyle changes for long-term preventative care.
dental
In our Dentistry component, our dentists perform general check-ups. After consultation, tooth extractions and/or fluoride treatments can be provided to patients. Recently, we have also incorporated restorative dental care as a new service. In addition, each patient receives education on proper dental hygiene, a toothbrush, and toothpaste to help them maintain healthy dental hygiene.
OPtometry
Patients visiting our Optometry component receive a comprehensive eye exam by our optometrists to check their overall eye health and provided with glasses if necessary. We are now also offering eligible patients the opportunity to receive free cataract surgery through our partnership with Da Nang Eye Hospital.
Physical therapy
After an initial evaluation by one of our physical therapists, patients are provided basic plan of care and shown physical exercises that they can perform for long-term alleviation of chronic pain.
Pharmacy
After visiting our various healthcare components, patients visit our pharmacy to receive the medications they were prescribed throughout the clinic and counsel on how to correctly take their medication. We also typically give our patients essential tools to help them live a healthy lifestyle such as vitamins, sunglasses, milk, or even toys for our younger patients.
Public health
During our Public Health component, we encourage patients to actively take charge of their health by educating them about healthy lifestyle choices and preventative care. We engage patients through interactive activities and exercises that allow us to connect and have fun with them.
Cataract surgery
How It Works:
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Screening & Diagnosis: During our mobile clinic, ophthalmologists from our US and VN collaborate to conduct free cataract screenings for patients.
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Fully Funded Surgery: Eligible patients receive no-cost cataract surgery, covering all associated expenses, including:
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Surgical costs
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Medications
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Transportation
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Lodging and meals for both patients and caretaker
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2025 Goal:
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Sustained Year-Round Impact: When VHC is not in Vietnam, we fund screenings and surgeries in collaboration with local healthcare providers to ensure continuous patient care.
Cataracts are a leading cause of preventable blindness in Vietnam, especially in rural areas where access to surgical care is limited. VHC’s Cataract Surgery Program, launched in 2017 through the collaboration with our partner in DaNang Eye Hospital, provides life-changing surgeries to restore sight for patients in need.
hypertension program
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a silent but serious health issue in rural Vietnam, often leading to life-threatening complications such as heart disease and stroke. VHC’s Hypertension Program aims to provide early detection, access and continuity to treatment to improve patient outcomes.
How It Works:
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Screening & Education: Our mobile clinic identifies patients with hypertension, providing lifestyle counseling and treatment initiation when necessary.
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Partnerships with Local Health Stations: VHC collaborates with commune health stations, such as the one in Ca Dy, to ensure patients receive ongoing care and medication management.
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Empowering Local Providers: We supply medical equipment, continuous medication support, and training to healthcare workers, ensuring sustainable hypertension management.
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Digital Health Integration: VHC is integrating its Electronic Health Record (EHR) system into local health stations to improve patient tracking and care coordination.
This program is expected to launch in 2025 and will serve as VHC's stepping stone toward expanding access to chronic disease management in rural Vietnam
Join Us in Making a Difference
VHC’s programs directly impact the lives of thousands, but we cannot do it alone. Your support—through donations, partnerships, or volunteering—ensures that patients in rural Vietnam receive the healthcare they deserve.
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Get Involved – Interested in joining us? Learn more about how you can participate as a student member or healthcare professional.
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Support Our Mission – Every contribution helps us expand access to essential care.