Unlawful clinics mushrooming

Unlawful clinics mushrooming

From Kompas

In his article titled Family-oriented service (The Jakarta Post, July 11), Dr. H. Anies suggested that physicians who had already completed their compulsory civic-mission assignment could practice independently. This is a good idea in principle, provided that the authorities issue a license for this purpose. Unfortunately, the health ministry's weak control has led to the springing up of illegal 24-hour general clinics run by physicians who have not yet completed their compulsory civic-mission assignment. Many of these clinics are even run by non-physicians.

These illegal clinics can be found in Jakarta, Tangerang, Bandung, Surabaya, Medan, Palembang, Lampung and some other cities. A high rate of profitability will spur clinic owners to set up their branches in other places. To prevent any unpleasant consequences, relevant authorities -- the police, the health ministry and the regional administration -- should take action to ensure that only clinics with proper licenses can operate.

Just like other professionals and their businesses, physicians should first obtain a taxpayer code number before seeking a practice license or setting up a clinic.

MULYADI, Tangerang, West Java