Medical Project in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

WHY we need you in Vietnam

HOW can you help?

WHAT you can do?

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

kindergraten teaching with IVI-Phan Thiet

  PROJECT NAME: MEDICAL PROJECT

LOCATION: HA LONG BAY

  START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS)

  MIN DURATION: 2 WEEKS

  MIN AGE: 18+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required, medical student/ qualified professional

Overview

This immersive observational program offers participants a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam’s public healthcare system and gain insight into how various medical specialties function within a resource-aware environment.

Hosted in a leading general hospital in Quang Ninh that serves thousands of patients, the program provides a rare glimpse into hospital operations, patient care protocols, and clinical practices—entirely from an observational perspective.

Participants will rotate through multiple departments based on their academic background and personal interests. From emergency medicine and surgery to paediatrics and traditional healing, this program offers broad exposure to a diverse range of specialties within a single placement. Departments include:

  • Emergency and Intensive Care
  • Cardiology
  • Respiratory
  • Nephrology (Hemodialysis)
  • Endocrinology (Diabetes)
  • Neurology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Rheumatology
  • General Surgery
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Neurosurgery
  • Trauma and Orthopedics
  • Ophthalmology
  • ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat)
  • Odonto-Stomatology (Dental and Oral Surgery)
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Paediatrics
  • Geriatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Oncology
  • Anesthesiology and Resuscitation
  • Rehabilitation
  • Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging
  • Laboratory Medicine
  • Traditional Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Hospital Infection Control

Beyond clinical observation, the program fosters cross-cultural understanding and offers a deeper appreciation of the global challenges and innovations that influence modern healthcare systems.

Important Note
In line with Vietnamese government regulations, this is a strictly observational program. Participants are not permitted to perform medical procedures or provide direct patient care.

While English proficiency among medical staff may vary, an English-speaking coordinator will be available at all times to assist with communication and help guide your learning. Participants are encouraged to engage actively, ask questions, and participate in discussions throughout their rotation.

To ensure meaningful learning, participants must commit to a minimum of one week per department.

Upon successful completion, a certificate of participation will be awarded, recognizing your involvement and learning achievements.

Program Highlights

  • Access to 25+ Medical Departments: Including specialties such as Cardiology, Neurology, Paediatrics, Oncology, Surgery, and Traditional Medicine
  • Cultural Insight: Learn how Vietnam blends modern healthcare with traditional medical practices
  • Professional Mentorship: Observe medical procedures and gain insights from practicing doctors and specialists
  • Certification: Receive a formal certificate recognizing your observational learning
  • Language Support: An English-speaking coordinator ensures smooth communication throughout your experience

Your Role

  • Attend daily hospital shifts alongside assigned staff
  • Observe diagnostic processes, treatment planning, and medical procedures
  • Learn about hospital systems, public health strategies, and resource management in a Vietnamese context
  • Take detailed notes, reflect on your experiences, and draw lessons relevant to your future career or studies
  • Commit to a minimum of one week in each department to ensure continuity and deeper learning

Location

Ha Long Bay is a stunning coastal area in northern Vietnam, famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s known for scenic cruises, hidden caves, and floating fishing villages, offering a unique glimpse into local life and natural beauty.

Project Tasks

  • Gain insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system
  • Observe the medical practices of local staff at the Hospital
  • Broaden your understanding of international medical care and treatment models.
  • Cultural Exposure and experience local culture and its influence on healthcare delivery and medical practices.

Food & Accommodation

You will stay in our volunteer accommodation, which is located about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Cat Bi Airport in Hai Phong, and roughly 3 hours from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi.

Volunteers will be accommodated in shared rooms with 2 to 4 people of the same gender. Each room includes basic bedding such as a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Bathrooms and toilets are shared and cleaned twice weekly. The accommodation also has wifi, hot showers, fans and air conditioning.

We provide a locker at the accommodation — just remember to bring your own padlock for extra peace of mind! There’s a washing machine available but please bring your own laundry liquid, or you can easily purchase some at a local market nearby.

*Please be aware that dogs and cats may occasionally wander through common areas, and cicadas are commonly heard during the summer.

Three (3) good meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are provided every day of the program, and on weekends only brunch and dinner. Typical meals include Vietnamese dishes with rice/noodles, pork/beef/fish/seafood, fried vegetables, soup, and breakfast items such as cereal with milk, fruit, sandwiches with jam/eggs, and instant noodles.

All prices in USD
  • 1 Week - $565
  • 2 Weeks - $725
  • 3 Weeks $1015
  • 1 Month - $1325
  • 2 Months - $2295
  • 3 Months - $3390
Uni Campus
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Bus Stop Pickup
  • Local Transportation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion

Testimonials...

FAQ

  • You must have a relevant medical background, such as studying on a pre-medical track, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or occupational/physical therapy, or working in a related field.
  • You are required to submit your relevant qualifications or certifications (e.g., medical study transcripts), CV/resume, and a copy of your passport to the local team via email at least two weeks before the program start date. These documents will be forwarded to the hospital for review.
  • A medical department selection form will be sent to you by email prior to your arrival, allowing you to choose which departments you would like to observe each week during your placement.
  • Accommodation
  • 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
  • Arrival bus stop transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
  • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
  • 1 day orientation
  • Daily transportation to project
  • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
  • Fundraising support
  • University course credits (where applicable)
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
  • Airport pickup is an additional fee

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture.

Schedule

  • Introduction meeting and house rules
  • Setting expectations, health & safety advice
  • Signing and handling of documents
  • Local area tour, SIM card arrangement if needed
  • Basic Vietnamese language and culture lessons
  • Games and recreational activities
  • Welcome Dinner

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

An airport pickup is not provided but can be arranged for an extra fee. 

A free pickup is included when arriving to Bai Chay Bus Station, Ha Long. You must arrive between 06:00 – 20:00 on Saturday or Sunday.

If arriving outside the pickup times you can book a private transfer and any extra nights for an additional fee.

If arriving on Saturday, you will need to pay for an extra night’s accommodation, or arrange your own accommodation for the night.

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From the airport to the Ho Chi Minh accommodation, it takes 20 minutes by taxi. From the airport to the Phan Thiet accommodation, it takes 5 hours by public bus, and to the Mekong Delta around 4 hours by public bus.

Monday to Friday

Your placement begins with a comprehensive orientation to the hospital, including an introduction to the facility, its protocols, and your observational role. You will then begin shadowing local medical professionals—doctors, nurses, and therapists—across various departments within the hospital in Quang Ninh (Ha Long Bay).

Throughout the week, you may have the opportunity to observe and assist with non-invasive, basic procedures such as triage, wound care, blood pressure monitoring, and medication preparation, under the supervision of hospital staff.

***There is a long lunch break in the middle of the day.***

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Things to Do in Ha Long Bay

  1. Cruise Through the Bay

Take a day or overnight cruise through the UNESCO-listed bay, weaving between thousands of limestone karsts and islets. Many cruises offer activities like kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, and cooking classes.

  1. Kayaking and Swimming

Get closer to nature by paddling through hidden lagoons and sea caves. Popular spots include Luon Cave, Ba Hang fishing village, and the area around Titop Island.

  1. Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

This is the largest and most famous cave in Ha Long Bay, with dramatic stalactites, vast chambers, and panoramic views from the exit.

  1. Titop Island

Hike to the top for one of the best views of the bay. There’s also a beach for swimming and relaxing after the climb.

  1. Floating Fishing Villages

Explore traditional floating communities such as Cua Van. Learn about the daily life of local fishermen and see how these villages function entirely on water.

  1. Bai Tu Long Bay

Less touristy than Ha Long Bay itself, Bai Tu Long offers a more peaceful experience with equally beautiful scenery — ideal for eco-tours and nature lovers.

  1. Cat Ba Island

Technically part of the bay, Cat Ba is a great base for outdoor adventures. Visit Cat Ba National Park, go trekking, or explore Hospital Cave, a hidden wartime facility built inside a mountain.

  1. Try Local Seafood

Enjoy freshly caught seafood at local restaurants or on your cruise. Signature dishes include grilled squid, steamed clams with lemongrass, and seafood hotpot.

  1. Sun World Ha Long Complex

This amusement park features a cable car, a giant Ferris wheel, waterpark, and other family-friendly attractions with views of the bay.

  1. Ha Long Night Market

A good place for souvenirs, local snacks, and people-watching in the evenings. You’ll find everything from handcrafted goods to street food stalls.

Additional Requirements

  • You must have a relevant medical background, such as studying on a pre-medical track, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or occupational/physical therapy, or working in a related field.
  • You are required to submit your relevant qualifications or certifications (e.g., medical study transcripts), CV/resume, and a copy of your passport to the local team via email at least two weeks before the program start date. These documents will be forwarded to the hospital for review.
  • A medical department selection form will be sent to you by email prior to your arrival, allowing you to choose which departments you would like to observe each week during your placement.

Additional Equipment

Packing List
        Clothing

  • Blue Scrubs (any shade)
  • Closed-toe shoes (no flip flops allowed).
  • Masks and Gloves: The local team will have latex gloves, standard masks available for everyone. But if you’re allergic to latex or prefer masks a bit more comfortable, feel free to bring your own masks and gloves!

Documents

  • Passport
  • Flight info, insurance, vouchers, visas, and vaccination certificates (with photocopies)

 

Health & Safety:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • First-aid kit (medications, sunscreen, insect repellent, rehydration tablets)

 

Essentials:

  • Toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc.)
  • Day pack, small travel towel, reusable water bottle
  • Moneybelt, locks for bags

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: VN – Holidays – All Programs

Vietnam’s history is one of war, colonization and rebellion. Less than forty years since the savagery and slaughter of the American War, this resilient nation is buoyant with hope. Few countries have changed so much over such a short time as Vietnam. The speed with which Vietnam’s population has been able to put the bitter events of its recent past behind it, and focus its gaze on the booming future is incredible.  

However, there are broad regional variations in the distribution of poverty. The regions with the highest relative poverty rates include the north-west, north-central, central highlands, central coast and north-east. But in terms of absolute numbers, more poor people live in the north-central and north-east regions, in the Mekong Delta and central coastal regions, which are home to seven out of 10 of Vietnam’s poor people.

Volunteers have the opportunity to work in medical institutions caring for children and young people affected by Agent Orange, or in schools and community clinics looking after mentally disabled children. Volunteer work is varied and dependent on the institution where the volunteer is placed.

The weather in Vietnam can vary form North to South, with tropical and temperate climates. March to April is one of the best times overall, to visit the whole country, although Vietnam is a year-round destination.

June to August are the summer months and very hot and humid in Northern Vietnam, whereas this region experiences cold winters (as low as 4 degrees). Southern Vietnam is generally pleasant year-round but does have a rainy season from June to November. February to August is the best time to visit central Vietnam, as it gets hit with heavy rains in the wet season.

Vietnam has one of the oldest cultures in South East Asia, creating a rich history with ancient traditions dating back thousands of years. It also has a large Chinese influence. Elders are very well respected in Vietnamese culture, the older you are, the more respect is shown to you. ‘Saving face’ is a concept shown by most Vietnamese people and is thought of as extremely important in their culture. This means that if you feel angered or annoyed by someone, you do not show it and remain respectful. If you lose your temper/ are rude, then this is seen as losing face and therefore a loss of reputation and self-respect.

Vietnamese is the most widely spoken language, other languages include Chinese, Khmer, Cham and tribal dialects. Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are the main religious beliefs in Vietnam, and you will find many temples dotted around the country. You will often see the local people giving fruits and burning incense to give as offerings.

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IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.

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We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points.   Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options

Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising

Weekends & Extra Tours

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