Deputy Minister of Health Nguyễn Tri Thức. VNA/VNS Photo Minh Đức

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) is showing promising results in medical diagnostics and treatment, signalling a bright future for high-quality healthcare in Việt Nam. Deputy Minister of Health Nguyễn Tri Thức shared his insights with Lao Động (Labour) newspaper about the topic.

How is AI currently being applied in diagnosis, treatment and patient management at hospitals in Việt Nam?

The Ministry of Health has identified AI as a key solution in enhancing the healthcare system’s capabilities during the ongoing digital transformation.

In practice, AI has been increasingly integrated into various medical fields, particularly in diagnostic imaging, treatment optimisation and hospital management. Several major hospitals have piloted AI in clinical settings, yielding encouraging results.

For instance, in diagnostic imaging, central-level hospitals are using AI-powered systems to interpret X-rays, CT scans and MRIs, enabling early detection of abnormalities and faster clinical decision-making. AI-driven software for cancer treatment has also been deployed, helping to personalise treatment plans based on individual clinical data.

Beyond diagnostics, AI is being used in managing electronic medical records, streamlining administrative processes, improving hospital operations and enhancing patient experience. Some hospitals have incorporated AI into telemedicine systems, thereby improving healthcare access for people in remote and underserved areas.

Currently, 130 healthcare facilities have adopted fully electronic medical records, eliminating paper-based documentation. Most have implemented cashless payment options through bank transfers, QR codes, e-wallets and hospital cards linked to banking systems.

The adoption of advanced technologies has significantly propelled organ transplantation in 2024, particularly lung and multi-organ transplants. Since the country’s first organ transplant in 1992, Việt Nam has now performed over 9,200 such procedures.

The surgical team performs a coronary stent placement using the Artis Pheno robotic arm. VNA/VNS Photo Minh Quyết

The number of hospitals licensed for organ transplants has expanded from just four initially to 28 today. Meanwhile, the network of hospitals trained in organ donation advocacy and brain death evaluation has grown to 85.

For AI to truly become an effective tool in healthcare, a robust legal framework is essential. This includes ensuring data security and accuracy in clinical applications.

The Ministry of Health plans to focus on completing legal regulations related to AI in healthcare. This involves setting up standards for quality assessment and certification before AI tools are used in clinical environments. Equally important is the training of medical personnel to use AI effectively and responsibly.

AI in healthcare is an inevitable trend, but it must be approached with caution. Ensuring safety, effectiveness and alignment with the realities of Việt Nam’s healthcare infrastructure is critical. With the right foundation, AI has the potential to elevate the quality and accessibility of healthcare nationwide.

What challenges is the implementation of AI in healthcare in Việt Nam currently facing?

The integration of AI into Việt Nam’s healthcare system faces several significant challenges.

First and foremost is the issue of data limitations. AI systems require large, high-quality datasets to function effectively – something that is not yet consistently available.

Second is the shortage of highly qualified personnel. There is a lack of professionals with expertise in both healthcare and AI, particularly those who can bridge the two fields and apply interdisciplinary knowledge effectively.

Infrastructure is another barrier. Many healthcare facilities, especially in remote and rural areas, still lack the necessary medical equipment and IT infrastructure to support AI deployment.

Legal and ethical concerns also arise, as Việt Nam’s regulatory framework for AI in healthcare is still under development. Issues such as data privacy, legal accountability and ethical standards remain unresolved.

Finally, the high cost of investment poses a major challenge. Developing, testing and deploying AI solutions require substantial financial resources – an obstacle for many healthcare institutions.

How can we ensure that AI in healthcare is used safely, accurately and ethically, particularly in diagnosis and treatment decision-making?

While AI offers many advantages in healthcare, it also demands strict attention to accuracy, safety and ethical considerations. The Ministry of Health recognises that AI is not a replacement for physicians. It is a support tool. To ensure proper implementation, several key areas must be prioritised.

First, a comprehensive legal framework must be developed to regulate AI applications in healthcare. The ministry will establish guidelines for assessment, licensing and quality control, ensuring that only verified and approved AI systems are used in clinical practice.

Second, patient data protection must be reinforced. Since AI requires processing vast amounts of personal health data, the ministry will collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure strict compliance with data privacy laws and prevent breaches of sensitive information.

Third, ethical guidelines must be established for AI use. Healthcare institutions must adhere to the principle that AI only assists clinicians and does not replace human judgment. All final clinical decisions must be supervised and confirmed by a licensed physician, maintaining professional responsibility and safeguarding patients' rights.

The ministry will continue to study, assess and refine policies related to AI in healthcare. This ensures that new technologies are applied safely, effectively and in alignment with Việt Nam’s healthcare system, while upholding ethical standards in medical practice.

It is clear that AI represents a bright future for high-quality healthcare in Việt Nam. However, it will not and should not replace the role of doctors and medical professionals. Rather, AI will serve as a powerful tool that enhances diagnostic and treatment capabilities, ultimately improving the standard of care for patients across the country. — VNS