Based on the current situation, in which the use of public health services has increased at all levels, especially at national hospitals, the leader of the ministry of health has advised the chairpersons of governing boards and the management of all public administrative institutions of the national hospitals to conduct on-site governance and monitoring, particularly in the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit (ICU), to ensure that all operations are performed effectively and with proper coordination.
1. Encouraging Personnel
Please encourage all civil servants and health personnel to remain committed to continue improving the quality of consultations and treatment services, regardless of the high volume of patients and the heightened demand for services within hospitals.
2. Providing Services with Equity
Please uphold the principle of equity in delivering health services, without discrimination between:
• General patients who pay out of pocket
• Patients covered by NSSF
• Patients with Health Equity Funds or limited means
Including both Cambodian citizens and foreigners.
Every patient must receive equitable and quality care.
3. Encouraging Foreigners to have Health Insurance
Foreigners residing, working, or traveling in Cambodia, are encouraged to obtain health insurance to ensure proper care in the case of illness, given the potential risks that may arise at any time.
4. Cooperation with Embassies
We would like to express our appreciation to the embassies that have shown concern for their citizens in Cambodia. Please continue to cooperate with hospitals in communicating with families and coordinating patient care, especially in cases requiring urgent assistance during critical conditions.
Please also continue to pay close attention in situations where foreign patients may lack family support or unable to be contacted. In such cases, hospitals must take responsibility for providing full medical care until recovery, and at times even through the final stages. Embassies are kindly encouraged to strengthen follow‑up and communication to further enhance effective coordination.
5. Continue Strengthening Management
Hospital leaders are encouraged to continue supporting and promoting improvements in the quality of health services, while addressing various areas, including communication gaps that may lead to misunderstandings or inaccurate assessments of the actual situation.
In conclusion, the key objective is to ensure that “health services in Cambodia are of quality, equitable, and free from discrimination, serving both Cambodian citizens and foreigners who require healthcare within Cambodia.”
Phnom Penh: Tuesday, 22 April 2026
