Healthcare Information for Expats in Indonesia – Global Health Insurance Options
Indonesia is undoubtedly a great place to live as an expat; however, its healthcare systems can be deficient for foreigners living there. Jakarta is home to some of the best-equipped public medical facilities. The quality of services has improved over the last few years, and that’s the reason why most of the top hospitals in the major cities are overcrowded throughout the year.
Indonesian hospitals are usually ranked based on their services and accommodation facilities. Hospital accommodations are also classified into levels that include general admittance wards, shared rooms, and superior-quality VIP rooms. Patients in the VIP rooms can enjoy more privacy and better services in terms of medical care, hygiene, and food. Jakarta also boasts of a few specialist hospitals where you can have access to healthcare facilities that are not easily available in the rest of the country. Don’t forget to check out important health updates on the CDC Indonesia page.
Overview of Healthcare in Indonesia for Expatriates
As an expat or foreigner, you can have easy access to public and specialist hospitals in Indonesia, but you won’t be included in various government healthcare schemes. Visiting a public hospital would mean that you will either have to pay on your own or your international health insurance covers you at a particular medical facility. Don’t expect top-quality medical care in every Indonesian city if you need immediate medical care for critical ailments.
Traditionally, the healthcare system in this country consists of two schemes – private insurance for those who can afford it and basic state healthcare provision for those who are financially poor. The healthcare scenario changed in 2014 when the government launched Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN), which is a compulsory medical insurance scheme offering basic healthcare facilities for all citizens. JKN offers citizens the opportunity to enjoy an array of public healthcare facilities apart from a few services offered by private organizations that are connected to the JKN scheme.
Government-mandated insurance schemes came as a temporary respite for many because of the low premium charges. However, the influx of citizens with serious healthcare issues added to the strain on the nation’s healthcare facilities. Inadequate medical facilities in remote areas are forcing citizens and expats to look for quality healthcare in far off cities.
How the Indonesian Healthcare System Works for Expats
Due to the variable quality of public healthcare in Indonesia, most expats and global citizens prefer to use private health insurance during their extended stay. Having an international medical insurance plan becomes a must because expats are not included in the Indonesian universal healthcare scheme.
Thankfully, working expats can obtain comprehensive health insurance through their employers. So, if you are moving to this country on an employment project, you should check with your employer to see if the medical policy is sufficient to cover the needs of your family and yours.
So far, there are 44 globally accredited hospitals in Indonesia. The certifications were issued by the Joint Commission International (JCI), the Accreditation Council of Health Care Standard, and the Hospital Accreditation Commission (KARS).
Indonesian Public Healthcare
Apart from healthcare facilities around Jakarta, Indonesia can have a shortage of adequate public healthcare. The waiting time is so long that patients have to wait for weeks to get the desired treatment. As an expat, you can go for health treatments in the local hospitals, but most of the doctors won’t be able to communicate with you in English. The doctors in these public hospitals would also expect you to pay upfront because foreigners are not eligible for the national health insurance scheme.
Private Healthcare for Expats in Indonesia
Despite being expensive, opting for private medical care would be the best bet because they offer a better quality of services. Going for private healthcare would mean that you have easy access to top-quality amenities that suit your needs. It is also more likely that you would be attended by a well-trained staff who can speak in English.
Medications and Pharmacies in Indonesia
Known as ‘apotik’, Indonesian pharmacies can be found easily in various parts of the major cities. Big names include Century Healthcare, Guardian and Apotik Melawai, and you can easily get the necessary medications if you have a doctor’s prescription. Over-the-counter medicines are also easily available in pharmacies located in shopping malls.
Emergency Services When Living in Indonesia
You will have to dial 118 to get emergency medical assistance in this Asian country. However, traffic congestion is a big issue in big cities. You would prefer to take a taxi to the nearby private clinic or hospital instead of waiting for hours for emergency help when you are in a dire situation. Once you reach a nearby medical facility, you can get in touch with your insurance company before you go for any emergency treatment.
Best Private International Medical Insurance for Expats in Indonesia
If you plan to purchase an international health insurance plan during your expatriate life in Indonesia, you should look for an insurance plan compliant with local laws. We can source some excellent plans that will help you enjoy excellent global health coverage with various options at a competitive price. An insurance plan that you choose to purchase should suitably protect you and your family, irrespective of the number of years you intend to live in a particular Indonesian destination.
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