The facility is a trusted source of medical support for fishermen across the Truong Sa archipelago. From routine checkups to emergency surgery, the island’s military doctors remain on duty around the clock to protect lives at this remote outpost.
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Sr. Capt. and doctor Nguyen Dinh Khanh examines Corporal Ta Duc Long. |
Recently, Corporal Ta Duc Long underwent emergency surgery for acute appendicitis. After experiencing worsening abdominal pain, he was admitted to the medical center, where doctors quickly diagnosed his condition and operated.
While appendectomies are common on the mainland, performing surgery on a remote island presents unique challenges. Because patient evacuation depends heavily on weather conditions and transport availability, on-site emergency care is critical. The medical team successfully performed the operation and provided close postoperative care, enabling Long to recover quickly.
“At first, I thought it was just a normal stomachache,” Long recalled. “When the pain became more severe, my comrades took me to the medical center. The calm and dedicated doctors helped me feel confident before the surgery.”
His case is one of many handled by the Nam Yet Island Medical Center, which treats military personnel, local residents, and fishermen operating in surrounding waters, averaging 50 patients weekly. Common illnesses are treated on-site, while complicated cases involve consultations with mainland specialists.
According to Senior Captain Nguyen Dinh Khanh, a doctor at the center, the unit’s mission is to provide emergency care and treatment for both military personnel and civilians, including fishermen who fall ill or encounter accidents at sea. This requires constant readiness with medicines, medical equipment, and emergency response procedures.
Capt. Khanh, who serves at Military Hospital 103 and was assigned to Nam Yet Island in January 2026, underwent specialized training to handle medical situations in maritime environments. However, practicing medicine on a remote island differs significantly from the mainland.
“Since 1992, Military Hospital 103 of the Military Medical University has been responsible for providing medical support for Nam Yet Island,” he said. “Over the years, the medical center has become a reliable healthcare source. Doctors here must closely monitor patients and make rapid, accurate decisions.”
Most doctors at the center are young and on their first extended island assignment. Alongside professional duties, they must adapt to a demanding environment. Captain Pham Ngoc Hao, Head of the Nam Yet Island Medical Center, stated that teamwork and continuous learning are essential. Staff regularly exchange knowledge and consult mainland specialists when required.
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Deputy Chief of the General Department of Political Affairs Senior Lieutenant General Do Xuan Tung visits and encourages the doctors and medical staff serving at the Nam Yet Island Medical Center. |
“Most of us are still young, so we are constantly learning while carrying out our duties,” he said. “Serving on the island strengthens our professional skills, independent decision-making abilities, and sense of responsibility.”
The medical staff also promote disease prevention, inspect environmental sanitation and food safety, and monitor medical supplies. Fishermen visiting the island receive guidance on preventing workplace accidents and recognizing health risks at sea.
Behind the dedication of these young doctors is the support of families on the mainland. Some married shortly before their assignments. For Capt. Hao, his wife was seven months pregnant when he departed.
“What gives me the greatest peace of mind is my wife’s understanding and encouragement,” he said. “Although we live far away, family support allows us to focus fully on our mission.”
Each night, the lights remain on at the Nam Yet Island Medical Center. Every examination, prescription, and successful operation helps safeguard the health of those living and working in the country’s most distant waters.
Translated by Tran Hoai