1,162 children in Cao Bang Province, for the first time, received free check-ups for congenital heart diseases in a two-day humanitarian program to provide heart surgeries, “Heart for children”, in late March. The program was held by Viettel Corporation, in association with Viet Duc Hospital, Cao Bang Provincial Polyclinic and Vietnam Television. During the program, 77 children were confirmed to suffer from congenital heart diseases and have to have surgery at high fees which many of their poor parents in remote or ethnic areas are not able to afford. During these two days, Viettel Corporation’s employees instructed them about formalities for assistance from the program “Heart for children”. Dr Nguyen Huu Uoc, Head of the Cardiovascular and Thorax Department at Viet Duc Hospital, said that “Heart for children” is so meaningful for the entire society, especially for needy children. It is expected that more free heart check-ups will be provided for children in remote areas in the coming time. In 2011, about 3,700 children in Thanh Hoa, Ha Giang, Gia Lai, Dong Nai received free heart check-ups. In order to provide free heart examination for all children with possible heart diseases, Viettel Corporation’s employees went to villages to notify local people of the program. (www.qdnd.vn [1] April 4)
