Visiting University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City: What Should Patients Prepare?

1. General Introduction

Feel More Confident When Everything You Need Is Within Reach

Being well prepared before a medical appointment has been shown to enhance patient engagement in the treatment process, increase satisfaction, and improve communication between patients and physicians [2]. At University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, we always encourage patients to learn about and prepare thoroughly for their appointments to ensure that each visit is as effective as possible.

2. Preparing Before Your Medical Appointment

Thorough preparation before an appointment helps patients make the most of their time with the physician and ensures that important information is not overlooked [1].

Appointment and Personal Information

Confirm your appointment details, including the date, time, specialty, and clinic, to avoid confusion. Make sure you have all essential personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, address, and contact phone number.

Medical Records and Previous Test Results

If you have previously received medical care at other healthcare facilities or have prior laboratory test results or diagnostic imaging results, such as X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans, bring them with you. This information can be very helpful to physicians in assessing your overall health status and monitoring disease progression [1].

List of Current Medications and Allergy History

Prepare a list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products, along with their names, dosages, and frequency of use [1]. Also, clearly document any history of allergies to medications, foods, or other substances.

Note Your Symptoms and Questions for the Physician

Be Proactive About the Basic but Most Important Information

Write down the symptoms you are experiencing, including when they started, their severity, and factors that make them better or worse. Make a list of questions you would like to ask your physician to ensure that all your concerns are addressed [1]. Prioritize the most important issues for discussion first [1].

Prepare Financial and Health Insurance Information

Check your health insurance information and relevant documents, if applicable, to ensure that you receive the healthcare benefits to which you are entitled. Prepare the necessary payment methods in advance.

3. Essential Documents to Bring

Bringing all necessary documents can help make the registration process at the hospital faster and more convenient.

Identification Documents (Citizen Identification Card/ID Card, Health Insurance Card, Medical Examination Book)

These are basic documents required for medical registration. The Health Insurance (HI) card enables patients to receive healthcare cost benefits in accordance with applicable regulations. A medical examination book, if available, can help maintain a record of the patient’s medical information.

Referral Letter, If Applicable

If you have been referred from another healthcare facility, bring a valid referral letter to receive applicable health insurance benefits and facilitate the medical examination process.

4. Important Safety and Health Considerations

Patient and community safety is a top priority, particularly in a hospital environment.

Follow Infection Prevention Measures (Mask Wearing and Hand Hygiene)

Wear a mask properly and perform hand hygiene regularly using hand sanitizer or soap and water. Avoid touching your face and maintain a safe distance from others.

Keep Personal Belongings Secure

Hospitals can be crowded, so take care of personal belongings such as handbags, wallets, and mobile phones. Avoid carrying excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary valuables.

Inform Healthcare Staff of Any Concerns

If you feel unwell, experience unusual symptoms, or have any safety concerns during your visit, inform healthcare staff immediately so that appropriate assistance can be provided promptly.

5. Basic Medical Examination Process at University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City

Understanding the examination process can help patients feel more prepared and avoid confusion.

Registration

Upon arriving at the hospital, patients should proceed to the reception or registration area to complete the necessary procedures. Present your identification documents and Health Insurance card, if applicable. You will then be directed to the appropriate clinic.

Waiting and Medical Examination

After registration, you will be directed to the waiting area. When it is your turn, the physician will take your medical history and perform a clinical examination. This is the time to discuss your symptoms, questions, and prepared medical information. Do not hesitate to ask for clarification if anything is unclear [1].

Undergoing Diagnostic Tests (Laboratory Tests, Ultrasound, X-ray, etc.)

Based on the examination findings, the physician may order diagnostic tests such as blood or urine tests, ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. You will be directed to the appropriate departments or examination areas to undergo these procedures.

Receiving Results and Medical Consultation

Once the diagnostic results are available, you will return to the clinic for the physician to review the results, make a diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan. The physician will explain your medical condition, treatment options, medications, and lifestyle recommendations.

Payment and Discharge

Complete the payment procedures at the cashier and collect all necessary documents. Before leaving, remember to ask about your follow-up appointment, if applicable, and any specific instructions provided by the physician.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to make an appointment before coming for a medical examination? Making an appointment in advance can help reduce waiting time and ensure that you are seen by the desired specialty. The hospital encourages patients to schedule appointments in advance through the hotline or mobile application, if available.
If I do not have health insurance, how much will the medical examination cost? Without health insurance, patients are responsible for the full cost of medical services according to the hospital’s service price list. Patients should ask the reception staff about the estimated costs.
How early should I arrive before my appointment? It is recommended to arrive approximately 15–30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow sufficient time for registration and preparation.
Can I eat or drink before a blood test? For certain blood tests, such as blood glucose or lipid tests, patients may be required to fast for 8–12 hours. Ask healthcare staff for specific instructions or carefully review the preparation guidelines before undergoing the test.
Can a family member accompany me into the examination room? Generally, patients may have one family member accompany them to help remember information and ask questions. However, regulations may vary in certain circumstances or during disease outbreaks to ensure safety [1].

7. References

[1] National Institute on Aging (NIA). (2020). How To Prepare for a Doctor's Appointment. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/medical-care-and-appointments/how-prepare-doctors-appointment. Accessed: 2026-01-31.
[2] Gholamzadeh, M., Abtahi, H., & Ghazisaeeidi, M. (2021). Applied techniques for putting pre-visit planning in clinical practice to empower patient-centered care in the pandemic era: a systematic review and framework suggestion. BMC Health Services Research, 21(1), 458. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8116646/. Accessed: 2026-01-31.