JKN Helps Jamih Recover from Lumbar Radiculopathy

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Thanks to the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, 50-year-old Jamih Jubaedah was able to undergo a series of examinations, treatments, and physiotherapy to address her lumbar radiculopathy without any financial burden. In a statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday, Jamih explained that the pain, which originated in her spine and radiated down to her legs, had disrupted her daily activities. Over time, the pain initially felt only in her back and legs spread to almost her entire body. A specialist neurologist diagnosed her with lumbar radiculopathy, a nerve disorder in the lower spine that causes pain to radiate to the limbs. Jamih recounted that the symptoms began in early February 2025. She initially thought the pain was merely due to fatigue and could be resolved with rest. However, her condition did not improve. The pain became more frequent and intense, eventually impairing her mobility and daily activities. “When the pain struck, I felt very uncomfortable and worried about my health condition,” Jamih said. Realising her condition was not improving, Jamih decided to seek treatment at a community health centre (puskesmas) using her BPJS Kesehatan coverage. After an initial examination, the doctor referred her to a hospital for further treatment at the Neurology Clinic. “I followed all the treatment procedures properly. Starting from the puskesmas, being referred to the Neurology Clinic, then undergoing physiotherapy and check-ups with an orthopaedic doctor. Alhamdulillah, everything went well and all services were covered by BPJS Kesehatan,” she said. She also underwent regular physiotherapy for approximately one year. According to her, the therapy provided significant benefits in reducing pain and gradually helping to restore her mobility. Throughout her treatment, she experienced friendly and comfortable service and was never charged any fees. “I truly feel the benefits of being a JKN participant. During the examinations, check-ups, and physiotherapy that lasted almost a year, I did not have to worry about medical costs. I could just focus on undergoing therapy so that my health condition could improve,” she said. For Jamih, the presence of BPJS Kesehatan is immensely helpful for the public, especially for participants who require long-term treatment with costs that would be substantial if borne independently. She expressed her appreciation to BPJS Kesehatan for this initiative and hopes the JKN programme can be maintained and its service quality improved, so that more people can experience its benefits.