A delegation of SpaceX led by Andrew Matlock, director of enterprise sales, had a meeting with Vietnam’s Ministry of Health (MoH) on June 18 in Hanoi to discuss cooperation opportunities.

The two sides discussed cooperation opportunities. Photo: MoH

On the agenda were the need for internet connections in hospitals and clinics in remote areas, developing digital infrastructure for health examinations and remote treatment, improving work processes and operating systems, and participating in public investment.

The ministry assigned the Department of Science, Technology and Training as to work with the company on issues of concern, with the support of the Department of International Cooperation under the National Centre for Health Information.

Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan said, “SpaceX should cooperate with the MoH to ensure all hospitals and clinics in remote areas are connected to the StarLink satellite system, and share information, plans, and the issues discussed by members of the MoH. The ministry is also ready to provide information and send staff to work with the corporation.”

Andrew Matlock, director of enterprise sales, SpaceX. Photo: MoH

According to the MoH, IT and digital transformation are currently of particular interest to the Party, state, and government of Vietnam. The health sector has been accelerating digital transformation, including electronic health books and medical records, remote consultations, and the construction of data centres.

However, Vietnam is facing difficulties in developing IT, especially in remote areas. The country is seeking cooperation with partners to solve challenges and accelerate the work.

SpaceX uses thousands of satellites to provide high-speed internet services around the world.

At a meeting with Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade on May 20, SpaceX said that the company will invest about $1.5 billion to provide broadband internet connections in Vietnam, especially in remote, border, and island areas. In the first phase, it is expected to build 10-15 ground stations in the country.