The Health Ministry of Vietnam has taken action in response to troubling reports concerning E Hospital's cancer treatment department. On September 10, the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment issued a directive requiring the hospital to investigate claims that patients were pressured to pay additional fees in order to receive faster radiation therapy.

According to the directive, the Health Ministry has requested that the Director of E Hospital promptly verify the allegations reported by the media, particularly the claim that patients had to "attach money to their treatment requests" to expedite their care. The hospital has been asked to rectify any violations of regulations and to publicly disclose the results of their investigation to the media.

Patients undergoing radiation therapy at E Hospital have reported a disturbing trend where they feel compelled to pay amounts ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 VND to receive quicker access to treatment. Many patients expressed that this practice has become an unwritten rule, forcing them to pay extra just to avoid long waits.

The Department of Medical Examination and Treatment has set a deadline for E Hospital to report back by September 15, ensuring that the findings are compiled for the Health Ministry's leadership. Furthermore, the department has urged the hospital to enhance oversight and monitoring of its departments to detect and address any signs of malpractice promptly.

E Hospital's radiation therapy department was officially opened in 2021, featuring modern treatment systems. The Health Ministry's intervention underscores the ongoing challenges within the healthcare system regarding transparency and ethical practices.