15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Indonesia
Last updated on Feb 08, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Indonesia is generally considered to be lower than in the United States. Emergency services are available, but may not be as reliable or as well-equipped as those in the US. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 118 or contact the nearest hospital.
How are healthcare services Indonesia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Indonesia, they replied:
"It's very important to have health insurance and if you're on an international scheme, then have the documents on the ready to give proof. If you don't have healthcare insurance, be prepared to pay a pretty penny when sorting health bills," said an expat in Bali.
"Healthcare services in Indonesia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Indonesia often use the public healthcare system for basic medical needs, but they may opt for private healthcare for more specialized treatments," commented one expat living in Indonesia.
What are medical services in Indonesia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Indonesia, they replied:
"Indonesia has a wide range of medical services available to its citizens. The country has a network of public hospitals and clinics, as well as private medical facilities. The public health system provides basic medical care, while private facilities offer more specialized services. Indonesia also has a number of medical universities and research centers, which provide advanced medical training and research opportunities. In addition, there are a number of international hospitals and clinics in the country, offering quality medical care to both locals and foreigners," commented one expat living in Indonesia.
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Indonesia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Indonesia can be expensive, depending on the type of care and insurance coverage needed. Generally, basic healthcare services such as doctor visits and vaccinations are relatively affordable, but more specialized treatments and procedures can be costly. Health insurance premiums can also be expensive, especially for comprehensive coverage, but there are government-subsidized health insurance plans available for those who qualify," wrote one expat.
"My kids and I all had dengue fever at the same time and were taken very well care of at BIMC, Nusa Dua. I am so pleased we had health insurance because the hospital bill would have cost us a hefty US $2100," commented one expat who moved to Bali.
Get Quote
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote
What are emergency services like in Indonesia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Indonesia wrote:
"Emergency services in Indonesia are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the emergency number 112. This number is toll-free and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will then dispatch an ambulance to the location of the emergency," said an expat in Indonesia.
"There are many clinics and hospitals [in Bali] that are privately owned, but the ones in rural areas are staffed by people who speak little English. The most most popular hospital is BIMC in Nusa Dua which offers superb healthcare," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"One can get the right healthcare needed in any area you are in, but not all have the same superior quality like at BIMC. An efficient ambulance service is available at BIMC. Taxis run 24/7 and they are another option to use when in an emergency. It is so important to have health insurance as costs can be hefty if one is hospitalized for serious issues," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.
"Some of the most popular cities in Indonesia for medical specialists are Jakarta and Surabaya. Both cities feature a wide range of highly-skilled physicians, specialists, and surgeons. Other cities with good selections of medical specialists include Banda Aceh, Medan, Balikpapan, and Yogyakarta. In addition, many tropical islands in Indonesia have some of the best medical specialists, including Bali, Lombok, Sulawesi and Sumatra," wrote one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Indonesia?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Indonesia. Most medications are available over the counter at pharmacies, although some require a prescription from a doctor. The Indonesian government regulates the sale of prescription medications, and all medications must be approved by the Ministry of Health before they can be sold. In addition, the government has implemented a system of price controls to ensure that medications are affordable for all citizens," commented one expat who moved to Indonesia.
"Most drugs are easily available at pharmacies that are dotted everywhere. Most antibiotics can be bought over the counter, at a cost much less than in Europe," said one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Indonesia?
"Medical facilities and care in Indonesia are generally adequate and available in major cities, although access can be limited in remote areas. In the larger cities and main tourist areas, some good quality private hospitals and clinics can be found and much of the latest medical technology and treatments can be found. Public healthcare is also available and some hospitals offer free or low-cost treatment. Doctors and nurses are generally well-trained and many have studied abroad, however as with many developing countries there is still a lack of resources, especially in rural areas," wrote an expat living in Indonesia.
As a foreigner living in Indonesia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Indonesia have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is adequate for basic medical needs. The cost of care is usually quite affordable, and there are a variety of public and private hospitals and clinics available. However, it is important to note that the availability of certain treatments and medications may be limited, so it is important to research the options available in the area before seeking medical care," said one expat living in Indonesia.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Indonesia if they have access to public healthcare in Indonesia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Indonesia. The government has implemented a number of measures to help contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of schools, the suspension of public transportation, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with patients, leading to long wait times and a shortage of medical supplies. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to help support the healthcare system, such as providing additional funding for medical personnel and equipment, and increasing access to telemedicine services. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Indonesia is still struggling to cope with the pandemic," wrote an expat living in Indonesia.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Indonesia?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Indonesia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the local medical system and the different hospitals in area to ensure top quality medical care for your baby. Make sure you inform your doctor of any medical history relevant to the baby, and consider enrolling in a private health insurance policy to cover any medical costs. Familiarizing yourself with the local regulations and document requirements for registering the birth of your baby is also advised. Lastly, connecting with other expat families with young babies can be an invaluable source of support during your transition to life in Indonesia," remarked one expat in Indonesia.
"If you feel comfortable in the country and your birth presents itself without any problems. By all means give birth in Jakarta, where you can stay close to your family, your other children, your house-help, your work (you can work until the last moment and keep all your maternity leave for when the baby is finally there)! You have friends visiting. You don't have that if you travel abroad to have the baby! I did that for my first 2 babies, as I was living in Cambodia and Myanmar, where local childbirth is really not recommended at all," explained one expat living in Jakarta.
Are healthcare services good in Indonesia?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Indonesia. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Indonesia vary widely due to the country's large size and differing levels of development. Hospital and clinic care, both private and public, are available to citizens and foreign visitors. Primary health care is provided through community health centers and on a fee-for-service basis. Prescription medicines are available in pharmacies or through home visits. Healthcare personnel receive regular training and the government provides some financial subsidies for the public health system. The government also encourages public-private partnerships in order to provide more access to medical care," said one expat in Indonesia.
"I've had medical experiences in Bali and I can tell you that the doctors are highly unqualified, overworked and lacking in compassion. Medical care for expats has also become very expensive and it's substandard. I would not consider retiring to Bali or Indonesia if I had any health issues," wrote a person living in Indonesia.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Indonesia?
- How do I find a place to live in Indonesia?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Indonesia?
- What is the average cost of housing in Indonesia?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Indonesia?
- What should I pack when moving to Indonesia?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?
- Why do people move to Indonesia?
- How are healthcare services in Indonesia?
- What are medical services in Indonesia like?
- What are typical rents in Indonesia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?