Ombudsman Urges Ministry of Health to Improve Protection for Intern Doctors
The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia (ORI) has officially requested that the Ministry of Health immediately draft stronger policies regarding the protection of participants in the Indonesian Doctor Internship Program (PIDI). This step is being taken to ensure that young doctors receive their rights and proper security while undergoing their internship period at various healthcare facilities.
So far, doctors participating in the internship program have often faced various challenges in the field. The Ombudsman assesses that existing protections still need to be improved so that intern doctors can work with peace of mind and professionalism in providing healthcare services to the public.
The new policy proposed by the Ombudsman covers aspects of welfare, workplace safety, and legal status clarity for young doctors. This is considered important because the role of intern doctors is crucial in assisting the operations of hospitals and community health centers (puskesmas) throughout all corners of Indonesia.
The Ministry of Health is expected to immediately follow up on this recommendation by conducting a thorough evaluation of the current internship system. With better regulations in place, it is hoped that the quality of healthcare services in Indonesia will continue to improve alongside better protection for medical personnel.
In conclusion, the Ombudsman emphasizes that protection for intern doctors is not just a matter of individual welfare, but also an investment in the future of the medical field in Indonesia. The government is expected to promptly formulate fair policies to support young doctors in carrying out their humanitarian duties.