JKN Provides Lifeline During Rusdi's Battle with Illness
Rusdi Talahata (53), a resident of Kadodi Village, Lobu District, Banggai Regency, has stated that the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme provided optimal protection whilst he battled illness.
“Amidst economic limitations, I am grateful that the JKN programme was there to provide health protection, allowing me to receive medical services quickly without having to think about treatment costs,” Rusdi said at Luwuk Regional General Hospital on Tuesday.
Rusdi, a Contribution Assistance Recipient (PBI) participant whose premiums are covered by the central government, said that over the past few months he had frequently experienced shortness of breath, severe chest pain, and coughing sometimes accompanied by blood. With this condition, he was immediately taken to Lobu Community Health Centre for medical treatment.
“Initially I was taken to Lobu Community Health Centre, then I was immediately given a referral to Luwuk Regional General Hospital. The service was good and the response was quick,” said Rusdi.
He revealed that the existence of BPJS Kesehatan through the JKN Programme greatly assists the community, particularly less fortunate families like his own. According to him, without the government’s health insurance, he and his family would struggle to access treatment due to financial constraints.
“The existence of BPJS Kesehatan allows people to seek treatment easily without worrying about costs. Because my family and I are poor, if we had to register as independent participants, we wouldn’t know where to get the money,” he said.
Rusdi is also grateful that the government provides free health insurance through the JKN Programme for those in need. This is considered very helpful for the community in accessing proper healthcare services.
“Fortunately, the government provides free health insurance through the JKN Programme, with premiums paid by the government. This really makes it easier for us to access healthcare services without having to worry about costs,” he expressed.
According to Rusdi, the cost of treatment and medication during care would certainly be enormous if borne personally. Therefore, he feels more at ease undergoing treatment with his JKN membership.
“Just imagine, every day we need services and medication during 10 days of treatment with personal funds, how many millions would have to be spent. So, by having this BPJS, we can seek treatment with peace of mind,” he explained.
Rusdi hopes this programme will continue and that the government will keep paying attention to ordinary people so they can still receive health insurance.
“I hope this BPJS Kesehatan Programme continues and the government keeps helping small people like us to get health insurance through this JKN Programme. Without BPJS, it would be difficult for us to get proper treatment,” he concluded.