As a medical volunteer in Vietnam with PMGY, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system. Working alongside local professionals at one of Vietnam’s leading university hospitals, you’ll observe and learn from experienced staff in a dynamic environment. If you’re currently studying a health-related subject at university, this program provides first-hand exposure that will enrich your understanding and support your career development.
Medical Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 For Improved Health
- Build Your Medical Profile With Exposure In A Leading Hanoi Teaching Hospital
- Gain Clinical Exposure Across Surgical Fields, Ward Rounds & Patient Care
- Explore More Of Vietnam With Weekend Trips To Sapa, Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh
- Experience Vietnamese Culture Through Hanoi’s Food, Markets & Old Quarter
Background to the Medical Program
The health status of the Vietnamese population has seen remarkable progress over the last 30 years, reflecting the rapid economic development following the 1986 economic and political reforms. These improvements have led to increased life expectancy and decreased infant mortality rates. However, challenges still remain.
Despite these advances, Vietnam's healthcare workforce continues to struggle to meet the demands of its population. In 2015, there were only 8 physicians per 10,000 people in Vietnam. This pales in comparison to 28 physicians per 10,000 in the UK and 26 per 10,000 in the US. Even when compared to neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam's ratio remains significantly lower, leading to an overburdened healthcare system.
Participants in the medical volunteer abroad program with PMGY are presented with an incredible opportunity to gain valuable experience while furthering their career aspirations. Working within Vietnam’s healthcare system exposes medical volunteers to a variety of interesting and diverse cases, helping to enhance their knowledge and expertise. Beyond professional development, the program also offers a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant and unique culture of this Southeast Asian gem. If you're considering gap year volunteering, our Vietnam projects are a fantastic way to combine personal growth with meaningful contribution.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Viet Duc University Hospital (VDUH) - As part of the PMGY medical program, participants have the opportunity to spend time at Viet Duc University Hospital, one of the most prestigious and long-standing medical institutions in Vietnam. Established in 1906 and later renamed Viet Duc Friendship Hospital in 1973, the hospital has strong historical ties with the Democratic Republic of Germany, reflected in its name and continued collaboration.
VDUH is widely recognised as Vietnam’s leading surgical centre and operates across four key pillars: patient care, scientific research, medical education, and international cooperation. Originally designed to house 430 beds, the hospital has expanded significantly over the years and now accommodates more than 1,500 beds across 26 departments. The facility includes 52 operating theatres and is well-equipped with modern technology for both standard and high-tech procedures.
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Medical volunteers placed at VDUH will have the opportunity to observe in a variety of surgical specialities, including Neurosurgery, Orthopaedics, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Emergency Abdominal Surgery, Gastroenterology, Hepato-biliary Surgery, Paediatrics, and Urology. Volunteers may also gain exposure to advanced medical procedures such as robotic surgery, cardiac valve replacements, laparoscopic surgery, pituitary tumour removal, and organ transplants.
The hospital provides an excellent learning environment for medical students. Through shadowing local staff and joining clinical discussions or ward rounds, participants can gain insight into Vietnam’s healthcare system and the day-to-day challenges of medical practice in a busy surgical hospital. Participants should come prepared for an observational role, with the opportunity to rotate through different departments to broaden their understanding of hospital-based care.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Vietnam, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Vietnam, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Vietnam team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – A medical elective in Vietnam is an incredible opportunity to gain firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the Vietnamese healthcare system. Experience the daily life of a doctor in Vietnam as you accompany them on rounds across various hospital departments. Shadow staff on tasks and use your time to learn directly from experienced medical professionals. The medical elective will enhance your knowledge of medical practices in Vietnam and provide insights into the challenges faced within the healthcare system.
Nursing – Immerse yourself in nursing as part of your nursing elective at one of Hanoi’s leading hospitals. Experience a wide range of medical environments by visiting different clinics and units. Observe surgeries, accompany nurses on surgical preparations, and shadow them on their rounds. Engage directly with patients, offering support and helping to transfer them around the hospital when required. This elective provides an invaluable opportunity to expand your learning and gain real-world experience in an international healthcare setting.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a volunteer in Vietnam, you will be placed at Viet Duc University Hospital, where you will participate alongside experienced doctors and medical staff. Your role will be primarily observational, designed to offer an internship-style experience that gives you insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system and local medical practices. This is an excellent opportunity to witness a wide range of surgical and medical conditions in a clinical setting.
During your time at the hospital, you'll have the opportunity to shadow physicians, attend bedside teaching sessions, and take part in ward rounds and small group discussions. You may also explore a wide range of medical specialties, including Neurosurgery, Neurology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, Gastroenterology, Upper Extremity and Sports Trauma, General Orthopaedics, Emergency Abdominal Surgery, Urology, Emergency Medicine and First Aid, Spinal Surgery, Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, Intensive Care and Anaesthesiology, Oncology, and Organ Transplantation.
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Participants on the PMGY Vietnam medical program typically attend Viet Duc University Hospital during standard working hours, Monday to Thursday. Each day involves around four hours at the hospital. While volunteering on Fridays is optional, it’s a great way to maximise your experience. Alternatively, you can use the extra day to explore Vietnam and make the most of your weekend.
Volunteers travel to and from the hospital by public bus, with the cost covered by your Program Fee. You will either receive a bus pass upon arrival or be reimbursed for your travel fares weekly. The bus station is about a 10-minute walk from the Volunteer House, and the journey to the hospital takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. On your first day, a member of the local team will accompany you to introduce you to your placement. For the rest of your program, a coordinator will usually meet you at the hospital each morning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Other Things to Consider as a Medical Volunteer in Vietnam
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Project Duration - We recommend a 3–4 week stay for the PMGY medical volunteer program to maximise your experience. A 2-week program, while still valuable, may feel too short as orientation and city tours take up some initial days. Volunteers staying 3–4 weeks gain a more comprehensive understanding of the project and leave with a greater sense of fulfilment.
Project Structure - While you'll have valuable opportunities to engage with doctors and observe clinical activities, it's important to understand that schedules in a busy hospital setting can be unpredictable. Doctors' availability may shift with little notice, and as a result, your working hours might vary from day to day. Additionally, please note that afternoons tend to be less structured and may involve fewer clinical learning opportunities compared to mornings. Flexibility, initiative, and a proactive attitude will help you make the most of your time during the elective.
Medical Donation - The medical program carries a slightly higher fee because it includes a weekly donation directly supporting the hospital. Additionally, a local coordinator is present to assign you to a doctor and help you understand the work happening around you.
University Students Only – This program is specifically for university students studying medicine, healthcare sciences, or nursing. Applicants not enrolled in these fields cannot join.
Internship-Style Experience - Participants should note that the medical volunteer program focuses on observation and learning. Hands-on involvement is not permitted, regardless of medical training. This internship-style program is designed to offer a unique learning exchange with local healthcare professionals, allowing you to develop a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s healthcare system. If you’re seeking more immersive opportunities, we recommend exploring other destinations.
Trained Professionals – This program is not designed for trained professionals looking to practise medicine overseas. It is specifically tailored for medical students who wish to learn about healthcare systems abroad and gain experience in a supportive environment.
Hospital Placement Availability – To guarantee availability, we require at least 3 months’ notice before your start date to submit your paperwork and arrange your placement with the hospital. As a result, applications should ideally be made at least 3 months in advance. In some cases, we may still be able to arrange placements within a shorter timeframe, depending on hospital availability and application volumes. However, applying early is strongly recommended to secure your place in the program.
Photos – Please note that photography is not allowed in clinical areas. Patients are often in vulnerable situations, and taking photos can compromise their privacy and dignity. Even if you witness something memorable or medically interesting, capturing images is not appropriate. You are welcome to take general photos outside of clinical settings, but always follow local guidance and respect the privacy of staff, patients, and the wider community.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands, Sapa is a serene mountain town known for its vast rice terraces, cool climate, and rich ethnic diversity. Home to Hmong, Dao, and Tay communities, it offers a unique cultural and natural escape. A weekend here includes guided treks through terraced hills, visits to remote villages, homestay cooking experiences, and evenings by the fire. For an added challenge, hike or take the cable car up Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.
Getting There
• 6 hours from Hanoi
• Sleeper Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Guided Trekking – 10–20 GBP
• Fansipan Cable Car – 25 GBP
• Village Visits – Included
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay enchants visitors with its limestone karsts, turquoise waters, and mystical caves. Just a few hours from Hanoi, this natural wonder is best explored on a day or overnight cruise, where you can kayak through hidden lagoons, visit caves like Sung Sot, and relax on deck amid breathtaking scenery. Many cruises include meals, island visits, and sunset activities, perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Getting There
• 3 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Shared Tour
Where to Stay
• Overnight Cruise – 60–90 GBP per night
• Hotel in Ha Long City – 20–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Day Cruise – 35–50 GBP
• Kayaking & Cave Tours – Included
• Swimming – Free
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is a stunning region of rice fields, limestone cliffs, and peaceful rivers. Take a boat ride through the karst formations of Trang An or Tam Coc, hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views, and explore ancient temples like Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda. Rent a bicycle to wander through tranquil villages and enjoy the slow rhythm of rural life, a refreshing contrast to Hanoi’s bustle.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Trang An Boat Ride – 8 GBP
• Mua Cave Hike – 3 GBP
• Bicycle Hire – 2 GBP
• Temple Visits – Free
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed town that charms visitors with lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, and tailor shops. Once a major trading port, it now offers a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and scenic countryside. Explore the Old Town, cruise along the Thu Bon River, and enjoy nearby beaches like An Bang. Most volunteers fly from Hanoi for convenience, maximising their weekend time.
Getting There
• 4 hours total travel time
• Flight & Short Transfer – 40–70 GBP
Where to Stay
• Guesthouse – 10–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Old Town Entry – 4 GBP
• Lantern Boat Ride – 2 GBP
• Cooking Class – 15 GBP
Just 50km west of Hanoi, Duong Lam is one of Vietnam’s oldest and best-preserved villages, offering an authentic glimpse into rural life. Wander narrow lanes lined with laterite-brick houses, visit ancient temples, and share a traditional meal with locals. A cycling tour through the surrounding countryside is the perfect way to experience this charming and historic destination on a budget.
Getting There
• 1.5 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Taxi
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Hanoi
Things to Do
• Village Entry – 1 GBP
• Biking Tour – 3 GBP
• Traditional Lunch – 3–5 GBP
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- A young woman relaxing on a wooden deck with stunning mountain views and lush greenery in Vietnam.
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- Young women enjoying a vibrant adventure exploring Vietnam’s limestone mountains at sunrise, celebrating friendship amid lush scenery.
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- A family relaxes under a rocky overhang, enjoying stunning mountain views and lush greenery during a peaceful hike in Vietnam.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Vietnam volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in a quiet and friendly neighbourhood of Hanoi. The accommodation is around a 45 minute bus journey from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs within walking distance. Volunteer projects are located across different areas of the city, giving you the opportunity to experience more of Hanoi during your stay.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other international volunteers. Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories and accommodate up to 8 volunteers per room. Rooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided, with space available for hanging clothes.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers.
The house has a spacious communal area where you can relax and spend time with other participants. Free Wi-Fi is available in certain areas of the house, including the main communal space, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for more consistent internet access.
There are 2 washing machines available for volunteers to use free of charge, with detergent available from nearby shops. Alternatively, affordable local laundry services can be found within the neighbourhood. Fridge space is also available for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Each volunteer is provided with a locker for storing personal belongings and a house key for convenient access to the accommodation. A member of staff, such as a nanny or local team intern, also stays overnight at the Volunteer House, providing an additional point of contact and support.
Power cuts can occasionally occur in Hanoi and are generally resolved within a couple of hours.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so volunteers usually travel to their placements by public bus. The cost of your bus pass is included in your Program Fee, and the local team will explain your route and transport options during orientation.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Vietnam, you will be provided with three meals a day, except on Saturdays when meals are not served. Meals are traditional Vietnamese dishes, with rice being a staple. All meals are freshly cooked and nutritious, with free drinking water available 24/7.
For breakfast, you can expect options like fruit, toast, and tea or coffee. Lunch is usually provided at the project if the travel time prevents volunteers from returning to the Volunteer House. In such cases, the local team will reimburse up to 40,000 VND for meals purchased at nearby cafes. When taken at the Volunteer House, lunch typically includes soup, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
Dinner is served at the Volunteer House in the early evening, often buffet-style, and typically includes a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. Meals generally consist of pork, fish, beef, or chicken, as well as tofu or egg, vegetables, rice, and soup. On occasion, a western dish will be served, which is always a favourite among volunteers. It’s recommended to eat promptly when meals are ready, as food cools quickly.
If you wish to eat out, there are plenty of local cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area, or you can take a bus or taxi into Hanoi’s Old Quarter for more options.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Fruit, Toast, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Soup, Rice, Vegetables, Meat, Fish
Dinner
Pork, Fish, Beef, Tofu, Egg, Vegetables, Rice, Soup
Program Location
FAQ's
This program is specifically for university students studying medicine, healthcare sciences, or nursing. Applicants not enrolled in these fields cannot join.
PMGY welcomes medical volunteers in Vietnam of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Vietnam will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Vietnam medical volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the Vietnam projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Vietnam medical program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Vietnam, you should book your flights to Noi Bai International Airport – Hanoi (airport code HAN) to arrive on the designated Wednesday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Vietnam medical volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Wednesday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Vietnam, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Vietnam medical volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Vietnam medical volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Vietnam medical volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Vietnam. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Vietnam’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Vietnam medical volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Vietnam, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Vietnam medical volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Vietnam medical volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
