The Ministry of Health has just issued professional guidelines on periodic health check-ups for people according to each age group and target group, aiming to be implemented synchronously nationwide, limiting overload at medical facilities and gradually realizing the goal of each citizen having a free health check-up or screening at least once a year from 2026.
The Ministry of Health has sent documents to the Departments of Health of provinces and cities; health departments of ministries and sectors; affiliated hospitals and medical universities to guide the implementation of periodic health check-ups for people nationwide.
According to the document signed and issued by Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan, the development of this guidance aims to implement the major policies of the Party and Government on strengthening people's health care, including the goal of periodic health check-ups or free screening for the whole population.
The Ministry of Health said that organizing periodic check-ups helps detect diseases early, increase treatment effectiveness, reduce medical costs and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. At the same time, this is also the basis for building national health data, towards managing people's health according to the life cycle through electronic health records.
According to the guidance, health check-ups will be divided by age group to suit needs and avoid overload.
For children under 6 years old, the examination content is implemented according to Decision No. 1284/QD-BYT issued on May 7, 2026.
For groups from 6 years old to under 18 years old, periodic health check-ups are carried out according to the forms specified in Circular No. 32/2023/TT-BYT. People will be fully examined in all clinical specialties; paraclinical tests are only performed when directed by a doctor or according to voluntary needs.
For people aged 18 and over, the examination list includes full clinical expertise and basic tests such as blood count, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, urine test and heart and lung X-ray.
The Ministry of Health notes that if during examination, signs of suspected tuberculosis, lung tumors or other diseases are detected, medical facilities need to prescribe additional in-depth tests or refer appropriately for early intervention.
In addition, female workers will have specialized obstetrics and gynecology examinations according to separate instructions. Specific occupational groups such as drivers, aviation staff, crew members, railway vehicle operators... continue to apply current specialized health examination regulations.
To ensure effective implementation, the Ministry of Health requests health units to proactively classify priority groups and arrange reasonable examination schedules to reduce congestion and create convenience for people. Regular health check-ups are not only aimed at assessing physical condition but also helping to advise on disease prevention, early detection of risks and timely treatment guidance.
