Hanoi (VNA) – Hanoi is rolling out free health checkups for more than 2.2 million preschool and school-age children across the city ahead of the 2026-2027 academic year, aiming to detect health problems early and strengthen preventive care.
Nguyen Sieu Primary School in Yen Hoa ward has became the first school in the ward to provide checkups for children aged six to under 18.
On August 18, medical staff from the Yen Hoa ward Health Station and Duc Giang General Hospital conducted physical and clinical examinations, including paediatrics, eye, ear-nose-throat and dental checks, as well as other tests. Particular attention was paid to common school-age health issues such as abnormal physical development, obesity, short-sightedness and tooth decay.
Nguyen Thi Hai Ha, Deputy Director of the ward Health Station, said regular checkups would provide families with a clearer picture of their children’s health, helping monitor development and detect potential problems for timely intervention.
Gia Lam commune also began free checkups on August 18, targeting all eligible preschool children and school students. About 21,931 children and students are expected to receive examinations, with school-based checkups prioritised.
According to the Hanoi Department of Health, the city has 4,776 educational institutions with more than 2.2 million preschool and school students. The health campaign will run from August 18 to September 4, targeting 100% coverage before the new school year begins.
Health data from the examinations will be integrated into electronic health records and digital school records, creating a continuous database to monitor students’ health and development.
The programme is fully funded by the city budget, making the checkups free of charge.
To handle the large number of examinations within a short period, Hanoi is mobilising hundreds of public and private general and specialised hospitals, clinics and health stations.
Vice Director of the Hanoi Department of Health Vu Cao Cuong said agencies must clearly define responsibilities and areas of coverage while ensuring examinations are conducted safely and efficiently. Schools and health stations will arrange additional checkups for students unable to attend their scheduled sessions, ensuring no eligible child is left without a health examination./.
