Jakarta – Following the recent lifting of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) status by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indonesian government has redirected its efforts towards bolstering the national healthcare system.
With an emphasis on long-term preparedness, the government aims to ensure the readiness and resilience of the healthcare system in tackling potential future pandemic threats. This shift reflects a strategic move towards enhancing six key components outlined by the WHO, including health services, financing, human resources, medical supplies, health information, and governance.
“The lifting of the PHEIC status for COVID-19 by the WHO implies that member countries, including Indonesia, should transition their response from emergency situations to focusing on strengthening the long-term and systemic aspects of the healthcare system. This includes addressing the six sub-systems of healthcare as defined by the WHO,” dr. Brian Sri Prahastuti, Senior Advisor at the Executive Office of the President (KSP), shed light on this pivotal development on Tuesday (9/5) at Bina Graha building in Jakarta.
The WHO itself identifies six essential components of the healthcare subsystems that require attention: health services, health financing, health workforce, medical products and technologies, health information, and health governance.
Highlighting the government’s proactive approach, dr. Brian further revealed that the Ministry of Health is currently in the process of implementing healthcare transformation initiatives to reinforce the national healthcare system. This transformation is necessitated by evolving healthcare needs in the digital era and the invaluable lessons learned from Indonesia’s experience in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. The government aims to adapt the healthcare system to the changing landscape by leveraging advancements in medical science and technology.
dr. Brian expressed confidence in the national healthcare transformation program, citing Indonesia’s remarkable response to the COVID-19 crisis. The country’s swift and comprehensive measures in containing the pandemic have garnered international acclaim, with the United Nations lauding Indonesia’s efforts during The 7th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) in May of the previous year.
From the outset, the Indonesian government has taken a holistic approach to address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak. “Since the early stages of the COVID-19 response, Indonesia has adopted a comprehensive approach, not only focusing on healthcare but also considering the social and economic well-being of the population,” she said.
The KSP has played a proactive role in the fight against COVID-19, even before the formation of the official task force. Notably, the operationalization of the PINTER (integrated information center) program and the development of six fundamental health protocols for communities, healthcare facilities, schools, offices/workplaces, public transportation, and public spaces like airports have been key contributions from the KSP in navigating the pandemic.
As the government shifts gears towards strengthening the national healthcare system, it remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard public health and tackle future health crises with preparedness and resilience. The nation’s experience with the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of a robust healthcare system capable of addressing evolving challenges, both in Indonesia and on a global scale.
