Many residents, clinic owners, and private pharmacies recently reported receiving unusual calls. The callers claim to be officials from the Department of Health or members of an inspection team, citing violations (often fictitious). They then exert pressure and demand money for "facilitation" or fines, requesting transfers to personal accounts.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, this constitutes impersonating a state management agency. Such actions damage the industry's reputation and pose a potential risk of financial loss if people are not vigilant.

The agency affirmed that all planned inspection activities are announced in writing beforehand, detailing the time and location. For unannounced inspections, the team must present a valid decision. Following an inspection, if further work is required, the department will send a written invitation, never making requests over the phone.

A pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City. *Photo: Quynh Tran*

The Department of Health advises residents and healthcare practitioners not to comply with any phone requests from individuals claiming to be officials. Do not provide personal or financial information, do not transfer money under any circumstances, and proactively verify information if suspicious.

Upon detecting signs of impersonation, contact the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health's hotlines at 0967.771.010 or 0989.401.155, and report the incident to the nearest police agency for timely assistance.

Le Phuong