Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Indonesia

Indonesia, the world's largest archipelagic nation known for its rich cultural diversity and tropical landscapes, maintains a developing healthcare system that combines public and private options. With a population of over 270 million spread across more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery while making significant strides in improving access and quality of care.

For expats considering a move to Indonesia, understanding the healthcare system is crucial. The country offers a welcoming environment for foreigners, with major cities hosting international-standard hospitals and English-speaking medical professionals. However, healthcare quality and accessibility can vary significantly between urban and rural areas, making location choice particularly important for those requiring regular medical care.

Indonesia's healthcare system operates through a combination of public insurance (BPJS Kesehatan) and private providers. Established in 2014, BPJS Kesehatan aims to provide universal healthcare coverage through a comprehensive national health insurance scheme, though most expats opt for private insurance and facilities.

The Indonesian healthcare system functions at three levels:

• Primary care: Provided by local clinics (Puskesmas) and general practitioners
• Secondary care: Regional hospitals and specialist consultations
• Tertiary care: Advanced hospital treatments and complex procedures

Patients in the public system typically need referrals to access specialist care, while private healthcare offers more direct access to specialists.As of 2024, Indonesia spends approximately 3.7% of its GDP on healthcare, though this percentage has been increasing annually.

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Structure of the Healthcare System in Indonesia

Public healthcare

The Indonesian public healthcare system, managed through BPJS Kesehatan, provides basic coverage to registered participants. Public facilities include community health centers (Puskesmas) and government hospitals, offering services at heavily subsidized rates. While coverage is comprehensive, facilities and waiting times may not meet expatriate expectations.

Coverage and accessibility

BPJS Kesehatan provides coverage for:

• Basic medical consultations
• Emergency care
• Hospitalization
• Maternity services
• Prescribed medications
• Basic dental care
• Preventive care programs

Quality and accessibility vary significantly between urban and rural areas, with major cities offering better facilities and more specialized services.

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How to Register for Health Insurance in Indonesia

For public healthcare (BPJS Kesehatan):

1. Obtain a KITAS (temporary residence permit)
2. Register at the local BPJS office
3. Choose a primary care facility
4. Pay monthly premiums based on chosen class

For private insurance:

1. Select an international or local private insurance provider
2. Complete medical screening if required
3. Choose coverage level and additional benefits
4. Pay premiums (usually annually)

Government-run healthcare programs

The Ministry of Health oversees Indonesia's public healthcare system, implementing various programs to improve healthcare access and quality. Special attention is given to maternal and child health, communicable disease control, and health education.

Private healthcare

Private healthcare in Indonesia, particularly in major cities, offers significantly higher standards of care. International hospitals in Jakarta, Bali, and other major cities provide modern facilities, English-speaking staff, and international-standard medical care. These facilities often have direct billing arrangements with major international insurance providers.

Pharmacy healthcare

Pharmacies (Apotek) are widespread in urban areas, with major chains offering 24-hour service. Prescription medications are generally available, though some specific brands may differ from those in Western countries. Over-the-counter medications are readily accessible, but quality control can vary between establishments.

Children's Healthcare in Indonesia

Pediatric care is available through both public and private systems, including:

• Regular vaccinations (following the national immunization schedule)
• Growth monitoring
• Preventive care
• Treatment for common childhood illnesses

Private hospitals often offer more comprehensive pediatric services with international-standard care.

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Indonesian Dentists

Dental care in Indonesia varies widely in quality and cost. Major cities offer modern dental clinics with internationally trained dentists, while public facilities provide basic dental services. Most expats choose private dental care, which remains relatively affordable compared to Western countries.

Mental Healthcare in Indonesia

Mental health services are developing in Indonesia, with better access in major cities. Private hospitals and clinics offer psychiatric and psychological services, often with English-speaking practitioners. However, the availability of specialized mental health care can be limited outside urban areas.

Emergency healthcare

Emergency services in Indonesia vary in quality and response time. In major cities, private hospitals operate 24/7 emergency departments with modern facilities. For emergencies:

• Call 118 for ambulance services
• Call 119 for general emergencies
• Contact your nearest private hospital directly (recommended for expats)

Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Indonesia

Who is covered under public healthcare in Indonesia?

BPJS Kesehatan is mandatory for Indonesian citizens and available to legal residents, including expatriates with KITAS. Coverage includes:

• Basic medical care
• Emergency services
• Hospital treatment
• Maternity care
• Essential medications

Geographic disparities in healthcare access

‍Healthcare quality and accessibility can also vary dramatically between regions:

• Major cities: Modern facilities and specialized care available
• Rural areas: Basic services only
• Remote islands: Limited healthcare access

Quality of Healthcare in Indonesia

Waiting times and availability of services

Waiting times vary significantly for healthcare in Indonesia, depending especially on whether you’re using public or private healthcare.

• Public facilities: Can be lengthy, especially for specialist care
• Private hospitals: Usually minimal waiting times
• Emergency care: Immediate in private facilities

Standards and regulations

‍Healthcare standards in Indonesia are regulated by the Ministry of Health, with additional accreditation for international hospitals. Private facilities often maintain international certifications and standards, particularly those catering to expatriates.

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Out-of-pocket Expenditure

Regional comparison

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Useful Resources

• GlobalPassport Indonesia webpage: https://www.globalpassport.ai/destinations/indonesia
• Ministry of Health: https://www.kemkes.go.id/eng/