My friend from the US was stunned by Vietnam's healthcare quality

The husband, like me, has heart disease but had struggled to find a suitable hospital in the U.S. When they visited again before my discharge, they were eager to learn about my inpatient care. They could not believe how advanced Vietnam's healthcare system had become.

Wanting to take advantage of the high-quality medical services, my friend underwent a full cardiovascular exam, including coronary artery screening, while his wife had a gastrointestinal check-up with stomach and colon endoscopy. Both were satisfied with the results.

A doctor is measuring a patient's blood pressure. Illustration photo by Pexels

He shared that despite living in the U.S. for over a decade and paying high insurance premiums - sometimes over $11,000 a year - he had never had such a thorough medical examination.

Concerned about potential health risks, my friend wanted to get a stent placement in Vietnam. With their children living far away, he and his wife worried about handling a sudden stroke on their own, especially given how difficult it was to receive timely medical attention in the U.S.

However, his doctor in Vietnam advised against immediate surgery, recommending medication instead. My friend was deeply moved by the thoughtful and careful approach to his treatment.

Back in the U.S., a stent costs around $21,500, not including hospitalization fees, and getting non-emergency treatment is difficult. In Vietnam, the latest stent model costs VND110 million ($4,300) before insurance coverage, making it a far more accessible option.

As we said goodbye, my friend kept saying how impressed he was with Vietnam's healthcare system. This visit might be a turning point—he's now seriously considering moving back to Vietnam for better medical treatment, retirement, and a more peaceful life.