Indonesia still needs to improve its health care. Data from the U.N. in 2022 shows that the median life expectancy in Indonesia is 68.25 years, reflecting an increase in life expectancy in the country. However, this figure is still relatively low. The main health problems in Indonesia are rooted in economic issues.

Access to Health Care in Indonesia

The unequal distribution of health services has resulted in an inability to access health services. With 9,599 health centers and 2,184 hospitals concentrated in the city center, rural dwellers face challenges in reaching these facilities. The slow development of infrastructure has a significant role in the need for health facilities. Data from the “Ministry of Health records that 52.8% of specialist doctors are in Jakarta, while in NTT and other provinces in Eastern Indonesia only around 1-3%.” Health funds in the health law must be 5%, but unfortunately, the Indonesian government only allocates 2.4% of the APBN.

Getting To Know BPJS

Indonesia Health Coverage Program, BPJS, was formed in 2014 to provide health and employment insurance for the public, civil servants and private employees. The legal basis for its implementation is Law No. 24 of 2011. Presently, 249 million Indonesians are registered as BPJS members, making it one of the most extensive programs globally.

One of the BPJS programs is the National Health Insurance (JKN), “an insurance system, where people are required to pay a small contribution as savings for treatment costs when they are sick in the future.” BPJS members receive comprehensive health care services, encompassing treatment and prevention. This includes access to necessary drug services based on medical needs and promotive and preventive services. The latter involves health education, primary immunization (BCG, DPT-HB, Polio and Measles), family planning services (including counseling, essential contraception, vasectomy and tubectomy) and health screening for early disease detection and prevention.

BPJS and Mental Health

Mental health is a big issue in Indonesia. According to data from Basic Health Research, in 2018, 19 million people aged more than 15 years experienced emotional disorders and 12 million aged more than 15 years experienced depression. Additionally, data from Litbangkes indicates an annual suicide rate of 1800 people. The government addresses mental health issues through the JKN program, ensuring comprehensive coverage for every member. This includes consultations, therapy, outpatient care and medications, all of which are fully covered by the JKN program.

The Impact of BPJS on Poverty and the Economy

Health is closely related to poverty and the economy, serving as the first energy base for economic development. When individuals are in good health, they are better prepared for work, contributing to increased productivity and a thriving economy. According to BPJS data, JKS-KIN protected 15.9 million people in 2015 and 14.5 million in 2016. The data from BPJS indicates that JKS-KIN has helped poor people in debt get adequate health facilities and reduce the inequality rate.

– Afra Amirah
Photo: Flickr