Journal provides medical assistance

JAKARTA (JP): Intisari monthly provided medical services on Saturday to 500 families from Palmerah subdistrict and its surrounding area in Central Jakarta.

Held at the Bentara Budaya building complex on Jl. Palmerah Selatan, it arranged for treatment by three doctors and 20 paramedics from event cosponsor Harum Hospital.

According to organizer Dian Sianipar, the Rp 10 million social event was intended to help low-income families treat their medical conditions as prices of drugs and medical services rise in the crisis.

"Such a free medical treatment means a lot to the needy," she said.

The event was also held in conjunction with Intisari's 35th anniversary on Aug. 17.

"The free service really helps me in treating my daughter's cough, which she has had for about two weeks," said housewife Nurita, as her daughter, Rohma Susana, 3, sat on her lap.

"Even though she was suffering from the cough, I have never brought her to the doctors or clinics as their prices have been skyrocketing."

Another patient Indra, 52, a rujak (mixed sliced fruit with spicy salad) trader, also appreciated the goodwill of the organizers, saying he had no money to treat his muscular pain. (ind)