In recent months, Yên Bái province has taken significant strides in enhancing its social protection policies, aiming to uplift vulnerable communities and ensure their integration into society. By strengthening communication and awareness of social assistance programs, the province has been able to reach over 31,000 beneficiaries of social protection services, a testament to its commitment to social welfare.
According to local officials, one of the standout initiatives in Yên Bái has been the comprehensive implementation of social assistance policies designed to support those in need. The province has prioritized the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens, including the elderly, orphans, and individuals with disabilities. As part of this effort, the local government has established a robust framework for identifying and assessing the needs of these groups, ensuring that assistance is both timely and effective.
In a notable move, Yên Bái province has ensured that 100% of social protection beneficiaries are provided with health insurance cards, a critical step in safeguarding their health and well-being. This initiative reflects the province's understanding of the importance of healthcare access in enhancing the quality of life for those in distress.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, the district of Trạm Tấu has mobilized resources to support its residents, particularly those facing economic hardships. The district allocated over 6.9 billion VND to assist social protection beneficiaries and families in need during this festive season. This allocation underscores the district's proactive approach to identifying at-risk households and providing them with the necessary support to prevent food insecurity during the holidays.
In 2025, Yên Bái has set ambitious goals to further enhance its social support framework. The province aims for at least 40% of social assistance facilities, medical institutions, and educational establishments to provide social work services. Additionally, it seeks to increase by 20% the number of individuals in difficult circumstances receiving social work support compared to 2020. Another critical target is to ensure that at least 85% of children who are orphans, abandoned, or affected by various adversities receive appropriate social assistance and services.
In a related development, the Social Work Department of Tien Giang General Hospital has been making notable contributions to patient care since its establishment nine years ago. Serving as a vital resource for both inpatients and outpatients, the department has successfully implemented numerous initiatives aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by patients, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
On average, Tien Giang General Hospital receives between 1,300 to 2,600 outpatients daily, alongside 1,300 to 1,500 inpatients. Many of these patients are in dire need of financial and emotional support during their treatment journeys. The Social Work Department has risen to the occasion, providing over 1.3 billion VND in support for living expenses and distributing thousands of nutritious gifts to patients in need during 2024 alone.
Furthermore, in 2024, the hospital utilized its Poor Patient Support Fund to assist 42 patients facing financial challenges, allocating more than 320 million VND for their hospital fees. This financial assistance is crucial for patients who might otherwise forego necessary medical treatments due to cost constraints.
In addition to direct financial support, the Social Work Department has engaged in various community outreach efforts, including organizing blood donation drives that collected 243 units of blood. These initiatives not only help to meet the immediate medical needs of patients but also foster a sense of community and solidarity among hospital staff and the public.
As the hospital commemorated World Social Work Day on March 25, Dr. Tạ Văn Trầm, the hospital director, emphasized the importance of community support in enhancing patient care. He stated, "The contributions of generous individuals and organizations are vital for our efforts to support patients, especially those in difficult circumstances. We are grateful for every donation and partnership that helps us continue this essential work."
In a broader context, the Ministry of Health has also announced significant changes to administrative procedures related to social protection. On March 26, 2025, the Ministry revealed that it would amend 35 administrative procedures and abolish four others in the field of social assistance and the prevention of social evils. These changes aim to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of social protection services.
Among the abolished procedures are those related to the registration of non-public social assistance establishments, which were previously under the purview of the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs. The Ministry's reforms are intended to simplify the establishment and management of social assistance facilities, thereby improving service delivery to those who need it most.
As Yên Bái and Tien Giang continue to innovate and adapt their social welfare systems, the focus remains on creating a supportive environment for all citizens, especially the most vulnerable. With ongoing efforts to improve social assistance frameworks and enhance community engagement, both provinces are paving the way for a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Looking ahead, Yên Bái's commitment to social welfare will be crucial in addressing the challenges faced by its residents, particularly in the wake of economic fluctuations and social changes. The province's proactive measures and the dedication of its healthcare and social work professionals highlight a collective effort to uplift those in need and foster a spirit of community resilience.
