Indonesian Health Minister Proposes Major Changes to BPJS Kesehatan Referral System

Shift from Tiered to Competency-Based System

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin is advocating for a fundamental transformation in how BPJS Kesehatan operates its referral system. The current tiered referral system is being criticized for causing delays and inefficiencies in patient care. Under the proposed changes, patients would be referred directly to healthcare facilities with the appropriate competency to treat their specific medical conditions.

Rationale Behind the Proposed Change

Minister Sadikin highlighted during a meeting with Commission IX of the DPR that the existing system forces patients to navigate through multiple healthcare facilities before receiving appropriate care. This not only delays treatment but also potentially worsens patient outcomes. By implementing a competency-based system, the ministry aims to streamline the referral process, making it more patient-centric and efficient.

Implications for Healthcare Delivery

The proposed reform could have significant implications for how healthcare is delivered in Indonesia. By allowing direct referrals to capable healthcare facilities, the system could reduce the burden on lower-tier healthcare providers and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care. This change aligns with broader efforts to improve healthcare quality and accessibility in Indonesia.