HEALTHCARE FACILITY CHOICE IN VIETNAM BY INCOME AND ECONOMIC REGION: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY USING A MULTINOMIAL LOGIT MODEL

Abstract

This study examines the factors influencing healthcare facility choices in Vietnam, using data from the 2022 Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey (VHLSS). It also explores differences between the wealthiest and poorest groups, and across six economic regions—a part overlooked in previous research. The findings reveal significant disparities in healthcare choices between the poorest and wealthiest groups, and across Vietnam’s six socio-economic regions. Wealthier individuals consistently have better access to healthcare facilities than poorer individuals. Additionally, urban residents benefit from a wider range of high-quality healthcare options compared to those living in rural areas. Notably, most people tend to shift toward higher-tier public healthcare facilities and private providers for treatment, regardless of income or residence. This growing demand for advanced services has contributed to overcrowding at higher-tier healthcare facilities in Vietnam.