Vietnam Social Security (VSS) and the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam on July 6 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation on sustainable health insurance and data-informed healthcare in Vietnam for the 2026-2028 period.

As non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and obesity grow increasingly prevalent, Vietnam's healthcare system faces a pressing need for better data to track disease trends, anticipate future demands, and ensure resources are allocated where they matter most.

Under the renewed partnership, Vietnam and Denmark will deepen collaboration across health economics, digital health, and the use of health data to support more effective healthcare planning, evidence-based policymaking, and long-term viability of the national health insurance system.

Building on 8 years of collaboration, the partnership has supported nationwide training programmes, policy dialogues, technical exchanges and study visits to strengthen Vietnam's health insurance system. More than 1,900 health insurance assessment officers across the country have taken part in training activities focused on non-communicable diseases. 

Now entering its 5th phase, the partnership broadens its scope through policy dialogue, professional exchanges, capacity building and digital health initiatives, with greater focus on data-driven disease burden analysis, long-term health-economic assessments, and value-based payment approaches aimed at improving system efficiency, sustainability and patient outcomes.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Hoa, Deputy Director General of VSS, described the cooperation between VSS and the Embassy of Denmark as a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries. Since the first MoU was signed in 2018, the partnership has been maintained without interruption and has grown progressively deeper.

"With the active support of the Embassy of Denmark, along with Danish agencies, organisations, businesses and international experts, VSS has been able to access a wealth of international experience in health insurance fund management, health economics, non-communicable disease management, and the application of data and digital transformation in healthcare. Training programmes, workshops and expert exchanges have not only strengthened the capacity of our staff, but also supported VSS in researching and refining policies, improving management practices, and modernising the implementation of health insurance. The knowledge shared by Denmark has become a valuable reference as VSS carries out its reform agenda, working towards a modern, efficient and sustainable health insurance system," Mr. Hoa said.

"Health insurance and universal health coverage remain shared priorities for both Denmark and Vietnam. Ensuring sustainable healthcare financing and equitable access to quality care require continuous innovation, strong partnerships and evidence-based policymaking. Through this new phase of cooperation, we are pleased to share Denmark's experience and work together to turn data into better policy, more effective use of healthcare resources, and ultimately better outcomes for patients. This partnership also continues to bring together public institutions and responsible private-sector partners to strengthen professional capacity, foster knowledge exchange and deepen institutional ties," said Mr. Lasse Pedersen Hjortshøj, Counsellor at the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam.