OBJECTIVES: To examine the health care systems of China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Australia using a pre-determined set of indicators. These were used to assess each system in terms of accessibility, effectiveness, efficiency, quality and responsiveness. METHODS: This study was a qualitative study. A set of indicators and sub-indicators was developed based on indicators used by the World Health Organisation, United Nations, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation Development (Health Care Quality Indicator Project), and from health frameworks of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and UK. The indicators were used to assess health care systems from an operational perspective.  A literature search and interviews with relevant academics and government officials were conducted to address each indicator. This provided a more comprehensive view of the functioning of each health care system and how the system itself is regulated and provides health care services to its people. RESULTS: Each of the surveyed countries have certain measures or programs in place to address health care accessibility. The majority of the countries have clear guidelines to improve effectiveness and efficiency. However, most developing Asian countries lack clear programs to assess the quality and responsiveness of their health care systems. CONCLUSIONS: Different countries have different health considerations and priorities in terms of politics, finance and resources where health care systems are concerned. Each has its respective strengths and weaknesses. What is appropriate for one country may not be suitable for another. This evaluation provided clarity and insight into the operation of each system and highlighted areas that require further attention. Interviews with local academics, government officials and other health care stakeholders in each country yielded a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding on the functioning of each health care system.