On 18/4, Tang Chi Thuong, Director of the TP HCM Department of Health, announced that out of 19,088 cases identified with health problems, 10,634 individuals were advised to continue monitoring at local health stations. The remaining 8,447 more complex cases were directed to specialist examinations or referred to higher-level hospitals.

This initiative represents the most extensive deployment to date by the city's health sector in bringing health examination and screening services to the community. With the participation of 103 hospitals and medical centers, a total of 29,687 residents received screenings. In many localities, people, especially the elderly, arrived at health stations early. Many expressed convenience in receiving free examinations from higher-level doctors close to their homes, eliminating the need for long-distance travel.

Non-communicable chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions accounted for the highest proportion, with 16,175 examinations. Through screening, over 7,100 cases required long-term management and monitoring, and nearly 5,000 individuals needed ongoing treatment. Additionally, the screening points offered various specialties including oncology, obstetrics, ophthalmology, dentistry, respiratory, ear-nose-throat, and dermatology. Hepatitis B and C screenings were also conducted, leading to the detection of many abnormalities requiring early intervention.

According to Thuong, these results demonstrate the effectiveness of community-based examination and screening models in early disease detection and treatment referral, helping to reduce the burden on higher-level hospitals. The activity also aligns with the city's direction to strengthen grassroots healthcare and move towards the goal of lifelong health management for residents in TP HCM.

People receive free medical examinations at Tang Nhon Phu ward health station, on 5/4. Photo: Quynh Tran

Previously, on 5/4, 58 hospitals and medical centers in TP HCM launched community health screenings in 64 wards and communes, prioritizing areas far from the city center, in response to National Health Day. Among nearly 14,000 participants, doctors found that over 63% had conditions requiring monitoring and specialized treatment.

TP HCM is also implementing a pilot model where doctors bring smart medical kits directly to residents' homes for examinations. Since 2023, the city has pioneered nationwide in providing free periodic health check-ups for people aged 60 and above.

Le Phuong