Ministry of Health covers medical costs for KontraS activist victim of acid attack
Jakarta — The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) has waived all medical treatment costs at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) for Andrie Yunus (AY), Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), who was attacked with caustic soda several weeks ago.
“Yes, he is being treated at RSCM and we will cover all costs,” said Kemenkes spokesperson Widyawati in Jakarta on Tuesday.
The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, 12 March.
According to RSCM, the 27-year-old male patient with acid burns to his face and several other parts of his body is currently in stable condition and not in a life-threatening state.
Medical staff stated that treatment will continue in stages according to the patient’s condition, including possible tissue reconstruction and follow-up procedures to optimise the restoration of vision function.
“Upon arrival at the emergency department, the medical team immediately conducted initial examinations and stabilisation procedures. Examination using pH indicators revealed exposure to acidic chemical substances in the wound area. As initial treatment, the medical team performed irrigation and cleansing of the affected area to reduce the chemical’s effects and normalise tissue condition,” a spokesperson said.
Subsequent examinations revealed that the patient sustained approximately 20 percent acid burns across his body and severe chemical trauma to his right eye, classified as grade three acute chemical injury. This resulted in a sharp decline in vision and damage to the corneal surface.
The patient was admitted to the Burn High Care Unit (HCU) for comprehensive monitoring and treatment by a multidisciplinary medical team comprising ophthalmologists, reconstructive plastic surgeons, and emergency medicine specialists.
Treatment includes wound care, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, vitamins, and medication to maintain intraocular pressure.
“RSCM is committed to providing comprehensive and professional medical care for every patient requiring treatment for complex trauma cases of this nature,” the hospital stated.