A Mission for the Community - Towards a Healthier and Higher Quality of Life in Vietnam
The Vietnam Society of Sleep Medicine (VSSM) aims to serve as a bridge between modern medical science and practical application, continually striving to improve the quality of sleep health for the Vietnamese population.
On December 13, 2024, a groundbreaking event in the field of sleep medicine in Vietnam took place in Da Lat: a series of collaborative activities between the Vietnam Society of Sleep Medicine (VSSM) and the World Sleep Society (WSS). This event was not merely a scientific milestone but also opened new opportunities to enhance the quality of sleep healthcare for Vietnamese citizens, paving the way for the future development of sleep medicine in the country.
Prof. Sy Duong-Quy delivered a welcoming speech to Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of WSS to visit and work with VSSM
Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of the WSS, delivered a welcome speech at the working session with the VSSM
International Collaboration - A Catalyst for Sustainable Development
As part of the event, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between VSSM and WSS marked the beginning of a strategic partnership, laying a solid foundation to advance the field of sleep medicine. Professor Duong Quy Sy, MD, PhD, and Chairman of VSSM emphasized, “Collaboration with the WSS not only provides opportunities for specialized training but also connects Vietnamese medical professionals with the global network of sleep medicine.”
The agreement outlined key objectives, including training and enhancing expertise in sleep medicine for Vietnamese healthcare professionals, organizing WSS-certified international sleep medicine examinations in Vietnam, and promoting scientific research, particularly the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of sleep medicine.
Prof. Sy Duong-Quy, President of VSSM and Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of WSS signed the MOU
Honoring and Affirming Pioneering Roles
In a ceremonial moment, Professor Duong Quy Sy, MD, PhD, Chairman of VSSM, presented the title of Honorary President of the Vietnam Society of Sleep Medicine to Professor Thomas Penzel, MD, PhD, President of WSS. With this role, Professor Penzel committed to accompanying VSSM in advancing the field of sleep medicine in Vietnam. Additionally, Professor Nguyen Si Huyen, a leading sleep medicine expert in Germany, was honored as Senior Advisor to VSSM. These distinctions signify the strong attachment and commitment of international experts to the development of sleep medicine in Vietnam.
Prof. Sy Duong-Quy, President of VSSM presented the honorary badge and certificate of Honorary Chairman to Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of WSS
Advancing Expertise through International Training and Certification
One of the highlights of the event was the awarding of International Sleep Medicine Specialist certificates by the WSS to Vietnamese healthcare professionals. This accomplishment came after extensive specialized training sessions conducted by VSSM, ranging from six weeks to six months. As a result, 33 Vietnamese medical professionals passed WSS's rigorous competency examinations held in June 2024. This recognition not only underscores the hard work of Vietnam’s medical teams but also provides access to the most advanced standards for diagnosing and treating sleep disorders.
Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of the WSS, presents the WSS International Sleep Medicine Specialist Certification
Innovation through Technology Application
During the scientific discussion session, Professors Thomas Penzel and Duong Quy Sy exchanged insights on projects applying AI to improve sleep quality. Initiatives discussed included AI-based sleep consultation apps, smart pillows designed to detect and reduce snoring, wearable smart devices to monitor and enhance sleep, and smart cameras that alert drowsy drivers. These potential solutions aim to optimize healthcare services while highlighting Vietnam’s integration into the global revolution in medical technology.
Prof. Thomas Penzel, President of the WSS, Visits and Discusses Applied Research in Sleep Medicine at the VSSM Headquarters
A Vision for the Future and a Mission for the Community
The events on December 13, 2024, marked not only a significant milestone in VSSM’s journey but also a leap forward for sleep medicine in Vietnam. It affirmed VSSM’s pioneering role in raising awareness, improving sleep health, and enhancing Vietnam's position within the global sleep medicine network. This collaboration provides Vietnamese experts, researchers, and medical professionals with more opportunities to enhance their expertise and contribute to better healthcare for the community.
Through its partnership with the WSS, VSSM is not only focusing on developing specialized capabilities but also working towards larger goals: improving public health and enhancing quality of life. Initiatives such as application research programs, risk assessments, and expanded training programs will help create a highly skilled healthcare workforce ready to tackle sleep disorder challenges in an increasingly globalized context.
With the support of the World Sleep Society, the Vietnam Society of Sleep Medicine is turning its vision into reality. VSSM is committed to aligning with global scientific trends, becoming a leader in sleep medicine in Southeast Asia, and making positive contributions to protecting and improving public health for a healthier, happier community.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FULL MOU BETWEEN VSSM AND WSS
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Author: Dr. Nguyen Duy Thai
President, Vietnam Association of Nutrition & Sleep Medicine
Director, Hanoi Representative Office of the Vietnam Society of Sleep Medicine
SOME ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EVENT
