Launched in 2008 and jointly implemented by the Military Industry and Telecoms Group (Viettel) and Tam Long Viet Fund under Viet Nam Television, “Heart for Kids” is a humanitarian program that provides free heart surgery for disadvantaged children under 18 across Viet Nam. The program has also organized free cardiovascular screening campaigns in many localities while providing funding to enhance Vietnam's medical capacity.
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Free heart disease screening for children to be held in Ho Chi Minh City |
Over 18 years of operation, the program has covered surgery costs for more than 7,800 pediatric patients and organized 122 free screening campaigns for nearly 190,000 children nationwide.
With the average cost of heart surgery reaching about VND 40 million per case, treatment can place a heavy financial burden on many families. Community support therefore provides an important source of assistance, giving affected children greater access to treatment and the chance of a healthier future.
Backed by Viettel’s annual commitment of VND 5 billion, together with other social contributions, the program covers the full cost of surgery for disadvantaged children with heart disease nationwide.
During the two-day screening at Binh Duong General Hospital, doctors will provide free examinations and consultations for children under 18 and conduct echocardiograms when indicated.
After the screening, disadvantaged children who are found to require medical intervention or surgery will receive guidance from the program in completing the necessary procedures for fully funded treatment.
To ensure timely examination and medical advice, cardiologists recommend that parents bring their children to the screening if they have already been diagnosed with or are suspected of having congenital heart disease by local medical facilities, or if they show symptoms such as recurrent coughing and wheezing; abnormal breathing, including rapid breathing or chest retractions when inhaling; frequent pneumonia or tracheitis; prolonged feeding lasting over 30 minutes or inability to finish feedings; rapid breathing and sweating, particularly after feeding; poor growth, pale or cold skin, excessive sweating and easy fatigue; bluish lips, tongue or fingertips; or shortness of breath during physical activity.
Children diagnosed with heart disease who meet the program’s financial hardship criteria will receive treatment free of charge.
Translated by Song Anh