The state of healthcare in Indonesia reflects a complex interplay of achievements and challenges. The findings from the 2024 IRIS Global Public Confidence Study, conducted in collaboration with Illuminate Asia, offer valuable insights into how Indonesians perceive their healthcare system, while also shedding light on broader systemic issues. These perceptions are particularly relevant in the context of Indonesia's universal healthcare system, BPJS Kesehatan, which has been both a landmark achievement and a source of contention.
A Mixed Outlook on Healthcare
Indonesians tend to have a positive overall perception of their healthcare system, with 15% rating it as "excellent" in the survey. This places Indonesia in a respectable fourth position globally. However, 65% of respondents identified inefficient management as the primary issue facing the system, far outweighing concerns about funding shortages (25%). This indicates that while structural resources may be in place, operational inefficiencies undermine the effectiveness of healthcare delivery.
BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia’s national health insurance program, has been pivotal in extending healthcare access to over 90% of the population. Yet, the program’s administration exemplifies the inefficiencies highlighted in the survey. Long queues, delayed claims processing, and inconsistent service quality have been ongoing issues. These operational hurdles erode public trust, even as the system’s intent to provide universal health coverage is broadly applauded.
Approval of Government Handling
The survey reveals that 60% of Indonesians approve of the government’s handling of healthcare, placing Indonesia third among the 21 countries studied. However, this marks a decline from 69% in 2023. The dip in approval may reflect public dissatisfaction with the implementation of healthcare policies rather than their objectives.
Care for Vulnerable Groups
One of the most pressing issues identified in the survey is the perceived inadequacy of healthcare for vulnerable populations. While 46% of Indonesians expressed confidence in the government’s ability to care for these groups, this figure represents a significant drop from 55% in 2023. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, the poor, and those in remote areas, often face barriers in accessing quality care under the current healthcare system.
For instance, rural areas frequently suffer from a lack of healthcare infrastructure and qualified professionals. Although BPJS covers services at community health centres (puskesmas), these facilities are often overburdened and under-resourced. The disparity in healthcare access between urban and rural populations underscores the need for targeted investments in infrastructure and workforce development.
Confidence in Global Standing and Medical Science
Only 28% of Indonesians believe their healthcare system ranks among the best globally, a figure consistent with 2023 data. This modest confidence reflects an awareness of the system’s limitations compared to more advanced nations. However, Indonesians remain relatively optimistic about the potential of medical science and pharmaceutical advancements, with 58% expressing confidence in their ability to address the nation’s health challenges. This optimism, though diminished from 64% in 2023, suggests a belief in progress despite systemic hurdles.
The COVID-19 pandemic showcased both the resilience and shortcomings of Indonesia’s healthcare system. While the government’s vaccination program achieved significant coverage, initial logistical challenges and misinformation revealed gaps in public health communication and crisis management. These experiences have likely shaped current public perceptions of healthcare capabilities and trust in scientific advancements.
Moving Forward: Addressing Core Challenges
The findings of the IRIS survey, in collaboration with Illuminate Asia, point to critical areas for improvement in Indonesia’s healthcare system:
- Management Efficiency: Streamlining healthcare administration is imperative to reduce bottlenecks and improve service delivery. Leveraging digital solutions, such as automated claims processing and mobile health platforms, could enhance efficiency and accessibility.
- Equity in Access: Investments in rural healthcare infrastructure and incentives for medical professionals to work in underserved areas are essential. Expanding telemedicine initiatives can also bridge gaps in remote regions.
- Transparent Communication: Public trust in healthcare policies can be bolstered through clearer, more consistent communication about reforms, such as premium adjustments or new service rollouts.
- Sustainability of BPJS: Ensuring the program’s financial viability without overburdening participants will require innovative funding mechanisms, such as partnerships with private insurers or tiered contribution models.
Conclusion
Indonesia’s healthcare system stands at a crossroads. The BPJS Kesehatan program embodies the nation’s commitment to universal health coverage but also highlights the operational inefficiencies that hinder progress. The 2024 IRIS survey underscores a public desire for improvements in management, equitable access, and the government’s capacity to address systemic challenges. By addressing these issues, Indonesia has the opportunity to not only restore public confidence but also create a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system for the future.
About the Study
The 2024 IRIS Global Confidence Study is a comprehensive multi-country research effort designed to capture public sentiment on critical global issues, including economic outlook, healthcare confidence, and perception on climate change. Conducted across 21 countries with over 14,000 respondents, the study includes a nationally representative sample of 500 Indonesians surveyed online conducted by Illuminate Asia. This Illuminate Asia report delves into Indonesia-specific insights, comparing them with global trends and highlighting cultural nuances. The findings offer businesses actionable knowledge to navigate the complexities of the Indonesian market.
To purchase the full report or to discuss with us how we can help your business uncover insights to help support your business growth, please contact: [email protected]