Vietnam will begin imposing fines of up to VND40 million (around US$1,600) on individuals who assault doctors, nurses, or medical staff under new healthcare regulations taking effect on May 15.
The tougher penalties come as violence against healthcare workers continues to rise across the country, putting growing pressure on hospitals already struggling with overcrowding and staff shortages.
Under Government Decree 90/2026, individuals who physically attack, threaten, insult, or harm the health and dignity of medical workers—or damage hospital property—can face administrative fines ranging from VND30 million to VND40 million.
The new rules also target online behavior.
People who publish or spread accusations against doctors or medical facilities before official conclusions are released by authorities may face the same level of penalties. Officials say the measure is designed to prevent misinformation and online outrage surrounding unverified medical incidents.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Health says violence against healthcare workers has become an increasingly serious issue in recent years.
Most reported attacks occur at provincial hospitals, where medical staff often work under intense pressure and overcrowded conditions. According to ministry data, around 70% of victims are doctors and 15% are nurses.
Some incidents have left healthcare workers permanently injured, while others have resulted in death.
In 2025 alone, six cases of violence against medical staff were recorded nationwide.
One of the most shocking incidents occurred recently at Nghe An Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, where a female nurse was stabbed 11 times. Four of the wounds penetrated her chest and severed branches of a major artery.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Health described the attack as a “final warning signal,” saying stronger legal protections are urgently needed to prevent further escalation of violence inside hospitals.
The issue has become a growing concern for healthcare professionals, many of whom say verbal abuse, intimidation, and physical threats from patients’ relatives have become increasingly common, particularly in emergency departments.
Footage from previous incidents has repeatedly gone viral on Vietnamese social media, including a widely shared 2022 case at Gia Dinh People’s Hospital showing a man physically assaulting and choking a doctor inside an emergency room.
Beyond administrative fines, the Ministry of Health is also urging lawmakers to introduce stronger criminal penalties for attacks on healthcare workers during medical treatment.
Officials say stricter enforcement is necessary not only to protect doctors and nurses, but also to ensure safer hospital environments and maintain treatment quality for patients.
The new regulations reflect Vietnam’s broader effort to strengthen legal protections for frontline healthcare staff following years of mounting pressure on the country’s medical system.
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