Indonesia eyes AI to boost lab-based preventive care
“AI is not a threat, but an accelerator. It is shifting healthcare from a curative approach to predictive and preventive care. However, human judgment and professionalism cannot be replaced by technology,” Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono said Friday.
He noted that laboratory test results are among the most critical information for patients, underscoring the central role laboratories play in delivering accurate diagnoses and supporting the transformation of the national health system.
Despite rapid technological progress, Harbuwono warned that challenges persist, including rising reagent costs and reliance on imported equipment, which require more adaptive and forward-looking strategies.
“Laboratory leaders must be AI-aware and capable of developing digitalization road maps without compromising quality, while adhering to accreditation and standardization,” he said.
To advance digital transformation, the ministry is integrating the SatuSehat platform with electronic health records (EHR) to enable real-time access to laboratory results and strengthen health surveillance.
The government is also upgrading public health laboratories through the InPULS program to expand access to quality services across regions.
Harbuwono called on stakeholders to foster innovation to improve service delivery and better meet public health needs.
At the same event, National Health Laboratory Association (ILKI) head Purwanto said the organization supports the government in developing relevant regulations.
He expressed hope that the 2026 ILKI National Seminar would strengthen collaboration among the government, professional organizations, academia and industry to enhance Indonesia’s laboratory system.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie