Dinda Shabrina, Jakarta – Health policy observer and Director of the Postgraduate Program at YARSI University, Tjandra Yoga Aditama, welcomed the Indonesian government's decision to permit foreign hospitals to open branches in the country.
However, he stressed that the policy must be carefully implemented to truly enhance public health outcomes.
"In principle, we support any effort aimed at improving public health. If opening foreign hospital branches is one of the chosen approaches, then there are at least three important considerations," Tjandra said in a written statement on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
He outlined three key points. First, Tjandra emphasized that foreign hospital branches must actively contribute to improving the quality of healthcare for all Indonesians, regardless of their social or economic background. These hospitals, he said, should be accessible to the wider population and available across various regions in the country.
Second, he cautioned against allowing foreign hospitals to serve only select groups. If that becomes the case, the government must establish specific programs to strengthen local hospitals in reaching underserved communities, particularly vulnerable and low-income populations.
Third, Tjandra underlined the importance of maintaining service quality and adequate staffing levels at both foreign and local hospitals.
"We must ensure that service standards and human resource capacity are upheld across the board," he said.
Tjandra also reminded that public health does not rely solely on hospital care. He pointed out that the foundation of a strong health system lies in robust primary care services, as well as community-based promotive and preventive efforts.
"The effectiveness and quality of primary healthcare are vital. Promotive and preventive measures, whether by health workers or the community, are essential," he said.
He also highlighted the role of civil society in supporting the healthcare system. As a citizen, Tjandra has taken part in local health activities. "I have worked with community health volunteers at several local clinics near my home as a form of public participation," he shared.
Previously, President Prabowo Subianto stated that the government is allowing both foreign hospitals and universities to operate in Indonesia. According to Prabowo, this openness has been in effect over the past two years.
"In the last two years, we have opened many sectors to foreign participation," Prabowo said during a meeting with President of the European Council Antonio Costa in Brussels on Sunday, July 13, 2025. His remarks were broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat's official YouTube channel.
Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2028482/indonesian-govt-opens-door-to-foreign-hospitals-3-things-to-conside