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| Doctors and medical staff working together to perform a dental procedure for a patient |
Attracting patients through medical expertise
Six years ago, Mr. Chiu Huang Yu, a Taiwanese national, came to Hue for dental treatment at Hue Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology. After completing treatment, his chewing function and appearance improved, prompting him to choose Hue again when he later experienced problems with his upper jaw. On this return visit, doctors recommended implant restoration. Beyond the treatment outcome, he was particularly impressed by the attentive care he received throughout the examination and treatment process. “I felt that the doctors and medical staff here really cared about me and took very good care of me, which is why I came back for a second time,” Mr. Chiu Huang Yu said.
At Hue Central International Hospital, the number of foreign patients seeking examinations and treatment has also increased each year. From 2.800 visits in 2023, the figure rose to 3.400 in 2025. In the first six months of 2026 alone, the hospital recorded 2.117 visits and expects the full-year figure to reach around 4.500 - 5.000 foreign patients. The number of foreign inpatients also increased from 378 in 2023 to 512 in 2025, while 355 international patients received inpatient treatment in the first half of 2026.
Patients come from a wide range of countries, including Laos, the United States, France, China, Australia, Germany, Japan, Canada and South Korea. Their needs range from general examinations and health screenings to specialized services such as interventional cardiology, cancer treatment, obstetrics, ophthalmology and dentistry. Health examinations and screenings are the most popular service category, accounting for 1.930 visits in 2024 and 2025 combined.
These figures show that international patients coming to Hue are not limited to a handful of specific services. The availability of multiple specialties and advanced medical procedures gives patients more options within the city. The case of Mr. Aviad Doron, an Israeli national, is one example. He came to the hospital for treatment of a complex foot injury caused by lower-limb arterial embolism against a background of diabetes. After learning about Hue Central International Hospital through the Internet and social media, he researched its specialized intervention capabilities before deciding to undergo treatment there.
Improving services and connecting with tourism
For foreign patients, differences in language and healthcare environments can become obstacles during treatment. As a result, in addition to medical expertise, healthcare facilities in Hue are paying greater attention to communication, guidance and support throughout the examination and treatment process.
Ms. Marjory Chambon, a French national, was once hospitalized after a cycling accident left a wound on her lower leg that became infected. Following two surgeries and antibiotic treatment, what she appreciated was not only the hospital's equipment but also the dedication of its medical staff in caring for her. “Everyone treated me like a Vietnamese person and did their best to help me recover as quickly as possible. That dedication went beyond every language barrier and made me feel like a Vietnamese person rather than a foreigner,” Ms. Marjory Chambon said.
According to Dr. Phan Hai Thanh, Deputy Director of Hue Central International Hospital, the hospital continues to invest in medical technology, facilities and support services for international patients. Its second facility, with more than 300 beds, is also being completed with the aim of better meeting patients’ healthcare needs. From appointment scheduling, reception and interpretation to examinations, treatment, payment and the provision of medical records, procedures for serving foreign patients are gradually being improved. These measures help reduce language and administrative barriers and make the process more convenient for patients.
Hue has an advantage in its extensive heritage, tourism and wellness offerings. Health examinations, treatment and rehabilitation can be combined with stays and cultural experiences when appropriate for a patient’s medical condition. However, developing medical tourism products will require more systematic coordination among hospitals, tourism businesses, accommodation providers and transportation services.
On August 7, 2026, Hue City People’s Committee held a meeting with a delegation of South Korean businesses to discuss cooperation in healthcare, wellness, the application of high technology and investment in specialized healthcare projects in the city. This also provides an opportunity for Hue to expand its connections, promote its medical capabilities and reach more international patients. When treatment quality, support services and the city’s tourism and wellness advantages are connected in a coordinated manner, Hue will be better positioned to develop into an attractive healthcare destination for international patients.