Coordination mechanisms between social protection and occupational health services in Viet Nam

Social protection and occupational safety and health systems both aim to address some of the social and environmental determinants of health for the working population and beyond, and in particular, occupational health services (OHS) and social protection schemes covering healthcare and employment injury and occupational diseases. They share a common public health objective of promoting good health, preventing (work-related) injuries and diseases, supporting access to health care without hardship, guaranteeing income security throughout sickness and injury and facilitating rehabilitation. In this respect, both policies directly support the achievement of SDG targets 1.3 and 8.8, respectively, and jointly contribute to the achievement of SDG 3 on health and wellbeing for all.

In support of coordinated and holistic approaches, a research project consisting of a scoping review and three country case studies was undertaken as part of the ILO-France Project “Universal Access to Social Protection and Health and Safety at Work” to generate an understanding of existing linkages and coordination mechanisms between national social protection systems and occupational health services, while also highlighting the current gaps in knowledge that need to be filled.

This country case study brings together the findings of the research in Viet Nam, with the aim of providing an overview of the existing coordination mechanisms between Viet Nam’s national social protection system and the national occupational health services system, while also highlighting the current gaps that need to be addressed. By examining current practices and identifying areas for improvement, the report aims to facilitate the coordination of OHS services and the national social protection system, ultimately ensuring enhanced protection and well-being for all workers in the country.