Dien Bien (VNA) – A free surgery programme for children with disabilities in the northern border province of Dien Bien was officially launched on June 2.
The programme was initiated by centre 2 under the Vietnam Relief Association for Handicapped Children in 2006. Since its inception, the programme has been rolled out in provinces and cities across the country, including Dien Bien.
Medical screenings and surgical interventions for children with disabilities are being carried out at health centers across Dien Bien. So far this year, 242 children have been identified for diagnosis, treatment, surgery, and the provision of assistive devices. The children face a range of conditions, including visual impairments, maxillofacial and ENT disorders, motor impairments, burns, and urological issues. The programme continues to receive walk-in patients for screening and surgery from June 1 to 6.
This year’s edition is supported by a team of leading medical experts from top institutions such as the National Eye Hospital, Viet Duc University Hospital, Saint Paul Hospital, and the Vinh Centre for Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation. These specialists are directly involved in surgical procedures, particularly in complex cases requiring advanced expertise.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Phạm Giang Nam, Director of the provincial Department of Health, emphasised that in a province like Dien Bien —where socio-economic conditions remain challenging—children, especially those with disabilities, are among the most vulnerable and disadvantaged.
Currently, around 5,500 children in the province live with various forms of disability, ranging from congenital malformations and physical or sensory impairments to intellectual disabilities or injuries sustained from accidents.
Most of them come from low-income families, many of them members of ethnic minority communities living in remote, mountainous areas. Access to quality healthcare remains limited due to geographical, financial, and awareness-related barriers, leaving many without timely medical attention.
Since 2019, the programme has screened over 1,300 children across Dien Bien province. Of these, 627 have undergone successful surgery, 27 received minor procedures, 19 were referred to higher-level medical facilities, and hundreds more have been provided with assistive devices and guidance for home-based treatment.
On this occasion, the organising board also presented gifts to children from disadvantaged backgrounds./.
