On February 27, 2026, Vietnam celebrates Doctors’ Day (Ngày Thầy thuốc Việt Nam), a national day dedicated to honoring physicians, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and all healthcare professionals for their dedication, sacrifice, and contributions to the health and well-being of the people.
The date commemorates February 27, 1955, when President Hồ Chí Minh sent his famous letter to the first National Congress of Military Medicine. In that letter, Uncle Hồ wrote: “Lương y như từ mẫu” (“A physician is like a loving mother”) — a phrase that has since become the guiding principle and emotional cornerstone of Vietnam’s medical ethics and respect for healthcare workers.
Doctors’ Day was officially recognized as a national commemoration in 1955 and has been celebrated annually ever since. It is a day to express gratitude to those who care for the sick, heal the wounded, and protect public health — especially poignant after the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the heroism and sacrifices of Vietnam’s medical community.
Significance in 2026:
- In 2026, Vietnam celebrates the 71st anniversary of Hồ Chí Minh’s letter — a timeless reminder of the noble mission of medicine and the deep respect Vietnamese society holds for doctors as “second parents” who save lives.
- The day acknowledges the vital role of healthcare workers in building a healthy nation, achieving universal health coverage goals, and responding to public health challenges (infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, aging population, and rural-urban disparities).
- It also serves as motivation for medical students and young doctors, reinforcing ethical values, compassion, and lifelong commitment to service.
Celebrations and Observances:
- Official ceremonies: The main national event is often held in Hanoi at the Ministry of Health headquarters or Bạch Mai Hospital (Vietnam’s largest hospital). The Minister of Health, government leaders, and representatives of medical associations deliver speeches, award medals and certificates to outstanding doctors, and express gratitude to frontline healthcare workers.
- Hospital and local tributes: Across Vietnam — from major hospitals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho to rural clinics — doctors, nurses, and staff receive flowers, cards, and small gifts from patients, families, and local authorities. Many hospitals organize special events, blood donation drives, or free health check-ups for the community.
- Cultural and media programs: State media (VTV, Voice of Vietnam) and private channels broadcast special programs: documentaries on Hồ Chí Minh’s letter, interviews with veteran doctors and war-time medics, stories of heroic healthcare workers, and concerts featuring patriotic and gratitude songs.
- School and youth activities: Medical schools and universities hold ceremonies, lectures on medical ethics, and student performances. Many schools nationwide include lessons on Doctors’ Day, encouraging children to respect and appreciate healthcare professionals.
- Public engagement: Citizens send messages of thanks via social media (#NgayThayThuocVietNam, #BacSiVietNam), post photos of doctors receiving flowers, or share personal stories of care. Many wear white coats or pins in solidarity.
- Symbolic acts: Hospitals and clinics are decorated with flowers and banners; patients and families often bring gifts (fruit baskets, cards) to express gratitude; the day ends with a sense of national appreciation rather than festivity.
Doctors’ Day is not a restricted public holiday (hospitals, schools, and offices remain open), but it is widely observed with deep respect and gratitude — a day when Vietnam says thank you to those who heal, comfort, and save lives.
A line from Hồ Chí Minh’s 1955 letter often quoted: “Lương y như từ mẫu” (“A physician is like a loving mother.”)
On February 27, Vietnam bows its head in gratitude to its doctors and healthcare workers — the compassionate healers who embody the nation’s spirit of care, sacrifice, and dedication to the people’s health. 🇻🇳