General Information
Donor(s): The George Institute for Global Health (TGI)
Period: 1/3/2024 - 31/03/2026
Implementing Sites: Gia Lai province, Hai Phong city, Nghe An province
Implementing Unit: Health and Social Protection Program
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is not only a goal but also a foundation to ensure that everyone has equitable, safe, and financially accessible access to essential health services. Tuberculosis remains a public health issue with significant gaps in UHC access. Many TB patients—especially vulnerable populations— face challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and adherence. Achieving UHC in TB response is an effective pathway toward ending the disease.
Building on years of community network development through HIV and malaria programs, and close collaboration with the health system, the project “Social Participation in Promoting Achievement of UHC in Vietnam” aims to expand community-centered approaches in TB care, helping accelerate Vietnam’s progress in ending TB
2024 Key Results
The initial key activity of the project was conducting a baseline assessment to understand the current situation and identify appropriate intervention points. In 2024, the project surveyed 301 community members and stakeholders across three intervention provinces, leading to tailored recommendations for each locality. These findings laid the groundwork for designing and implementing activities to strengthen community capacity and address barriers to quality healthcare access.
The project then organized community capacity-building trainings in three provinces, engaging 90 community members. Trainings focused on identifying existing issues, surveying and listening skills, patient accompaniment, and timely feedback to healthcare providers, enabling communities to propose appropriate solutions and ensure equitable access to quality health services.
The project also prioritized raising community awareness of UHC. An informational session involving 70 members of the CSET network and TB patient supporters was conducted, equipping participants with foundational knowledge about UHC and its connection to the rights of TB patients.
Creative communication efforts were also rolled out to amplify impact. Through website articles and social media platforms, the project shared stories highlighting financial burdens, patient barriers, and the role of health insurance and community networks in supporting TB patients.
2025 Key results
In 2025, the project strengthened the capacity and role of the CSET network through 4 training sessions on TB, health insurance, and UHC, enabling community members to take a more active role in identifying issues, engaging with health workers, and sharing challenges faced by people with TB.
The project also organized a community-led World TB Day communication event and a TikTok content creation initiative that received 24 submissions and reached more than 10,000 people, bringing issues such as treatment costs, stigma, and health insurance into community discussions.
After two years, the CSET network has shifted from primarily supporting access to services to taking a more active role in identifying issues and contributing to service improvement, demonstrating the importance of meaningful community participation in advancing UHC for TB.
Focal Person
(Ms.) Le Thanh Trung - Health and Social Protection Program Manager
.JPG)
