Sacrifice and dedication

During the war years, medical staff not only treated wounded soldiers but also directly participated in combat, staying in dangerous areas, overcoming bombs, diseases and countless difficulties. The image of field hospitals in the middle of fierce battlefields, where dedicated hands fought for the lives of each wounded soldier, has become an unforgettable symbol. Wherever they were, Binh Thuan medical staff always steadfastly and heroically served wounded soldiers, cadres and people in the base areas, becoming a "special force" alongside the armed forces, political struggle groups, communal work teams, youth volunteer teams, frontline laborers... Many medical staff heroically sacrificed their lives, leaving blood and bones on their homeland. Those were the emotional shares of Dr. Bui Tan Phuc - former Director of the Department of Health, Head of the Binh Thuan Resistance Medical Liaison Committee - at a recent meeting of resistance medical staff, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025).

After the country's reunification, the health sector of Binh Thuan entered a period of restoration and construction. The difficulties that the health sector of the province had to face on the journey to protect people's health were the lack of facilities, equipment, and limited human resources. Infectious diseases such as malaria, diarrhea, intestinal diseases, parasites, and malnutrition in children remained major threats, especially in rural and mountainous areas. Unsafe environmental sanitation and water sources further increased the risk of disease outbreaks. In this situation, the province focused on strengthening the grassroots health network, training and fostering a team of doctors. At the same time, it implemented disease prevention programs in a drastic and methodical manner. Thanks to these efforts, the health sector of Binh Thuan gradually improved its facilities, increased its human resources, and preserved and promoted the precious spiritual values ​​of generations of resistance doctors. Lessons of sacrifice, dedication and ideals are a great source of motivation for the cause of public health care. Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, the medical staff of the province affirmed their brave spirit and willingness to sacrifice for the community.

Reaching for depth and modernity

Continuing the glorious tradition, the medical staff of Binh Thuan today constantly strives to develop their expertise and integrate with modern medical advances. The representative of the provincial Department of Health affirmed: "The medical staff of the resistance war are shining examples for the younger generation in the medical sector to learn and follow. The medical sector continues to promote innovation in management, improve professional quality, and develop quality human resources."

Up to now, the ratio of doctors in Binh Thuan is about 8.2 doctors/10,000 people. Public health care includes 4 general hospitals; 3 specialized hospitals; 10 district-level health centers; 121 commune, ward and town health stations. Non-public health care includes 2 general hospitals, 2 specialized hospitals, 13 general clinics. The medical examination and treatment network has been consolidated, streamlined and expanded to meet the health care needs of the people. Regarding disease prevention, the whole province has not recorded any cases of dangerous infectious diseases, strange diseases or emerging epidemics. The number of cases of endemic diseases such as dengue fever... is stable, without outbreaks. The source of expanded immunization vaccines is fully ensured, helping to maintain effective prevention work.

Along with diversifying medical activities and promoting socialization, both public and private systems have invested in modern equipment (CT-Scan, MRI, continuous blood filtration system, automatic biochemical testing system, etc.), helping to diagnose diseases quickly and accurately, while deploying many specialized techniques.

Typically, Binh Thuan General Hospital has successfully performed endoscopic surgery, brain surgery and pacemaker placement. An Phuoc General Hospital has strongly developed cardiovascular intervention services, cerebral infarction treatment, gastrointestinal bleeding, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, dentistry and cosmetic surgery. Specialized techniques such as the above, which previously required referral, are now performed right in the province. This helps patients save time, costs and promptly save lives during the "golden hour"... Specialized hospitals in ophthalmology, dermatology, and traditional medicine have also gradually expanded their specialized services, combining Eastern and Western medicine methods.

It can be said that, over 50 years, Binh Thuan's health sector has overcome many challenges, gradually growing and becoming stronger. The sacrifices and aspirations of the previous generation are still a valuable foundation, continuing to give wings to the development of the province's health sector, for the health of the community today and tomorrow.

Source: https://baobinhthuan.com.vn/50-nam-sang-mai-tinh-than-nguoi-thay-thuoc-binh-thuan-129831.html