Widespread commercial advertising for diapers and milk has become a prominent feature within Tu Du Hospital, drawing significant concern. Tu Du Hospital displays large advertisements for diapers and milk in various areas, including walkways, corridors, examination rooms, and elevator entrances. Additionally, LED screens throughout the facility frequently broadcast content promoting products aimed at pregnant women and children. This persistent advertising has generated frustration among patients and their relatives, leading to complaints filed with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health.

In response to these complaints, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health initiated an investigation and issued directives. On 10/1, a representative from the Department of Health confirmed that they had instructed Tu Du Hospital to review all commercial advertising activities within its premises. However, a follow-up inspection on 9/1 revealed that the hospital had not fully addressed certain advertising issues. Consequently, the Department has directed hospital leadership to submit a report by 11/1 detailing corrective actions. They must also conduct a comprehensive review of all current advertising and product promotions, adjusting or terminating any which they deem inappropriate.

Main gate of Tu Du Hospital. *Photo: Hospital provided*

The Department of Health emphasizes that healthcare facilities, especially leading specialized hospitals, must prioritize patient well-being above commercial interests. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health states that all activities within hospital grounds should focus on patients. Hospitals must not allow commercial factors to impact the treatment environment, the psychological state of patients and their relatives, or the image of the medical sector.

The advertising at Tu Du Hospital also appears to violate legal frameworks. Both the Advertising Law and related regulations explicitly state that healthcare facilities cannot feature widespread commercial advertising within their premises if the content does not directly support medical examination and treatment. Furthermore, Ho Chi Minh City's architectural management regulations forbid advertisements on fences and the exterior of medical buildings, allowing only signs and notices that adhere to location and size guidelines.

Tu Du Hospital holds a critical role as a healthcare provider in the region. As a tertiary-level obstetrics and gynecology hospital for the Southern region, Tu Du Hospital serves thousands of patients daily, primarily pregnant women, new mothers, and newborns.

Le Phuong