Andalas University Hospital offers free cleft lip and palate surgery as social responsibility initiative
Padang (ANTARA) - Andalas University Hospital in West Sumatra is providing free cleft lip and palate surgeries as part of its social responsibility towards the health and future of children in the province.
“Any cleft lip or palate patient can visit Andalas University Hospital at any time and will be treated free of charge by our medical team,” said Hospital Director Muhammad Riendra in Padang on Sunday.
He added that the cleft surgery programme has been running since 2018 through partnerships with Smile Train and other social organisations. The surgical services are available year-round for those in need, not just during charity events.
Riendra explained that cleft lip and palate conditions not only affect children’s physical health but also their psychological and social development.
Children with cleft conditions often struggle with eating and drinking, which can hinder growth and lead to low self-esteem due to social stigma.
“Through these surgeries, we hope children can grow up healthier, more confident, and have a better future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Unand’s Second Vice Rector Hefrizal Handra praised the hospital’s consistent delivery of healthcare services with direct community impact.
Based on estimates of cleft cases in Ranah Minang, the university hospital’s free surgeries represent a concrete step in addressing local cases.
“This is not just medical care, but a tangible way to bring hope and restore our children’s confidence,” he added.
The Chair of Unand Hospital’s Dharma Wanita, Rina Jumita, also stressed that the social initiative demonstrates compassion and empathy towards the community, as well as organisational support for the hospital’s humanitarian programmes.
Through this initiative, Unand Hospital hopes more people will learn that cleft surgery services are available free of charge, enabling children with cleft conditions to receive early treatment.
In addition to Smile Train, the university, established by Vice President Mohammad Hatta in 1956, collaborates with Unand Hospital’s Dharma Wanita, the Padang chapter of the Indonesian Doctors’ Wives Association, and several other social foundations.