Doctors of Sala Club perfom a complex orthopaedic surgery. — Photo courtesy of Sala Club

HÀ NỘI — In the mountains of northern Việt Nam, a quiet revolution in medical care is unfolding, powered by a unique partnership between Vietnamese and American doctors.

As part of its 15‑year mission, the Sala Medical Club has facilitated a remarkable cross-border collaboration, bringing together expertise, compassion and shared learning.

During a recent trip to the northern Yên Bái Province, the team conducted more than 60 patient consultations and over 10 complex orthopaedic surgeries.

Each procedure became a hands‑on training opportunity, strengthening local capacity and reducing the need for costly referrals.

“Each year, four of our US residents come to Việt Nam to learn, and two Vietnamese surgeons go to the US," said Prof Thomas Golden, director of the residency programme at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, California.

“It’s an exchange, both sides learn and both sides grow.”

Vice Director of Việt Đức Friendship Hospital Nguyễn Mạnh Khánh (L) and Professor Thomas Golden (R) examine a patient in a recent trip to Yên Bái Province. — Photo courtesy of Sala Club

Prof. Nguyễn Mạnh Khánh, Vice Director of Việt Đức Friendship Hospital and leader of Sala Club, emphasised the deeper impact of this collaboration.

“We don’t simply come to operate. Our goal is to train local doctors so that, within two to three years, they can perform these surgeries independently, without relying on central hospitals,” said Prof. Khánh.

Founded in 2010 by Prof. Ngô Văn Toàn along with a group of dedicated physicians and journalists, Sala Club has matured into a compassionate network that blends surgery, education and public service.

Doctors of Sala Club perfom an orthopaedic surgery. — Photo courtesy of Sala Club

Beyond surgery, the club provides travel grants, meals, rehabilitation support, medical equipment, and training for provincial staff.

Dr Phan Bá Hải, Deputy Head of Sports Medicine at Việt Đức Friendship Hospital, shared the shift he witnessed: “Operating theatres at provincial hospitals have been transformed. Local surgeons now show confidence in handling complex cases.”

This comprehensive model aligns with Việt Nam’s broader public health goals, extending advanced care to underserved regions, empowering local professionals, and forging global partnerships in healthcare. — VNS