Vietnam ministry proposes fines of over $1,000 for spreading false medical information

The ministry’s Department of Medical Services Administration said false content promoting unscientific treatments, such as “natural healing,” alkaline water for cancer, fasting, detox therapies, or high-dose lemon remedies, has misled the public and encouraged patients to abandon legitimate medical treatment.

The department warned these practices pose serious risks to health and violate the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment.

Under the draft decree on administrative penalties in cybersecurity and personal data protection, fines of VND10-20 million ($380-760) would apply to those posting or advertising products, services, or devices falsely claimed to replace approved medicines or treatment regimens.

Many of these violations are linked to commercial motives, such as selling unregulated supplements, detox products, or unauthorized medical devices.

The proposal also sets fines of VND20-30 million ($760-1,140) for creating or spreading unverified medical methods, therapies, or prescriptions, or for encouraging patients to delay or abandon approved treatments.

In addition, violators could be forced to return or surrender any illegal profits gained from such activities.

The health ministry clarified that the penalties would not apply to individuals sharing personal experiences of medical treatment without commercial intent or attempts to replace professional care.

Officials stressed that the measures are necessary to protect public health and prevent exploitation of vulnerable patients.

The crackdown comes amid rising concern over misleading health content online, which has drawn large audiences and, in some cases, caused patients to reject evidence-based medical care.