Healthcare in Indonesia

The current population in Indonesia is at 249.9 million – a dense population and with expats in it, one cannot afford to get sick in the country. Good thing, the Indonesian Government invests a lot in their healthcare sector by launching the JaminanKesehatan Nasional (JKN). Foreigners living in the country must take good care of their health with the aid of this guide.

Types of insurance available

Indonesia has been rolling out its national health insurance scheme since 2014 and even foreign nationals living in the country are covered by it. However, since the scheme just started two years ago, it may be believed to become one of the largest health insurance scheme in the world but it is not yet viable and remains unachieved up to this moment. For expats, ensuring that their company will back up their health insurance is deemed imperative.

International private medical insurance

When it comes with securing an international private medical insurance in Indonesia, expatriates sent out by employers for a work here or companies who hire foreigners are the one responsible for it. Aligned with the Indonesian law’s health policies, companies must provide all their foreign employees with a comprehensive medical plan to cover their medical treatment in the country including those during sickness and accidents.

Cost of basic medical needs (dental, minor surgery, checkups) 

The basic medical needs in Indonesia are all covered under its national health insurance scheme however, expats would notice that the medical service would be through public health facilities and could be done poorly compared to their home country. Foreign nationals may consider private hospitals but must face relatively expensive costs. Expats should also get familiarized with the health care centers or also known as Puskesmas and village health posts (Pustu) in their communities so that they can visit for their medical checkups.

Best hospitals

Although medical facilities in Indonesia are of low standard compared to those in Western countries, expatriates are still to find private hospitals that can tend to their medical needs. However, foreign nationals must take note that private facilities are far more expensive than the public ones but are sure to guarantee an expat’s safety and care while in their facility. Known private local hospitals in the country include International SOS Medika, Jatinegara Premier Hospital, Metropolitan Medical Centre (MMC), Bintaro Premier Hospital and RumahSakit Prima Medika.

Emergency numbers

Indonesia is a non-English speaking country which makes it more of a hurdle for expats to seek for assistance when they get caught in an accident or for emergency purposes. Be sure to secure all the emergency numbers there is in the country and to look for those that can accommodate to English speakers. National emergency numbers in the country include Medical Emergencies – 119, Ambulance and Rescue – 118 and Police (General Emergencies) – 110 or 112. Expatriates must also be mindful that there are no nationwide medical emergency services anywhere in Indonesia. There may be public hospitals with ambulances but foreigners must set their expectations low as the medical equipment and staff is not of high standard.