Firm! Bekasi Regency Acting Regent Bans Hospitals from Rejecting Patients Without BPJS: Health is a Basic Right

JAKARTA - Administrative problems often become a barrier for people to get emergency medical access. Responding to this, the Bekasi Regency Government issued a firm instruction to all hospital management in its area: It is forbidden to reject patients just because they do not have health insurance.

This instruction was conveyed directly by the Acting Regent of Bekasi, Asep Surya Atmaja, when inaugurating the Cenka Hospital (Type C) in Karangbahagia, Thursday (8/1). He emphasized that human life and humanity must be above bureaucratic affairs.

"Hospitals must not refuse patients just because they do not have a Healthy Indonesia Card (KIS) or BPJS Health membership. Don't let sick people not be handled just because of administrative issues," said Asep as quoted by ANTARA.

Humanity Above Administration

Asep reminded that health is the basic right of every citizen guaranteed by law. Therefore, medical services must be provided without discrimination, regardless of the patient's insurance status.

The regional government understands that dealing with 3.3 million residents with diverse social backgrounds is a big challenge. However, Asep asked every health facility to prioritize the principle of humanity, especially in emergency conditions.

Budget Commitment and Regional Planning

Although currently the Bekasi Regency Government is carrying out the arrangement and burning of regional finances, Asep ensures that the health sector will not be sacrificed. Service to the community must continue to run optimally while the government corrects the internal system.

"God willing, in the future our regional finances will be cleaned up, but the community must not be harmed. Services continue as they should," he added.

Reducing the Medical Travel Distance

The inauguration of the Cenka Hospital in the Karangbahagia area is expected to be a solution for residents around who have difficulty reaching large hospitals. In densely populated residential areas, distance is often a determinant of patient safety (golden period).

"Until now, residents around here have had to travel a relatively long distance. This is certainly very risky for patients who need quick treatment," said Asep. The presence of a C-type private hospital such as Cenka Hospital is considered very helpful to the government in leveling access to health services in Bekasi Regency.

Private and Government Collaboration

Asep also appreciated the contribution of the private sector who wanted to invest in the health sector. According to him, collaboration between the government and the private sector is the key to strengthening the resilient regional health system.

He hopes that all medical personnel in Bekasi can provide services sincerely, regardless of the social status of the patient, in order to create a healthier and prosperous community environment.