In an ambitious move towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) at the village level, BPJS Kesehatan’s Batam branch has embarked on the ‘Pesiar’ program in Pongkar village, Karimun District.

This initiative is in line with the SDGs Village’s target of achieving 100% resident coverage under the National Health Insurance (JKN). It also acts upon the Presidential Instruction No. 1 of 2022, emphasizing the optimal implementation of the JKN program.

Batam’s BPJS Kesehatan Focus: Adithia Darma, Head of Membership for the Batam Branch of BPJS Kesehatan, highlighted that while Batam doesn’t comprise villages, they are actively working in the Karimun region, specifically in the Pongkar village.

Pesiar’ Program: The program involves local administrators aiming to identify, advocate, and register villagers who have not yet enrolled in the JKN.

A Nationwide Movement: BPJS Kesehatan has already undertaken pilot projects across 126 villages in Indonesia. For Batam, this initiative is in collaboration with the Ministry of Villages.

Roles & Responsibilities: According to Manna, the head of BPJS Kesehatan’s Batam branch, village officials will act as Pesiar agents. They will receive training in mapping resident data, canvassing areas based on these maps, and conducting advocacy and awareness campaigns regarding the JKN program.

Vision for 2024: The aim is for all areas with villages to be implementing the Pesiar program by early 2024. The government hopes to achieve a coverage rate of 98% under JKN by that time.

This initiative highlights Indonesia’s proactive stance in safeguarding the health and welfare of its residents. It could render the region more enticing for extended visits, with the knowledge that the local populace is covered by health insurance. Moreover, enhanced public health efforts can contribute to safer and more secure travel experiences within these areas.

BPJS Kesehatan’s Batam branch has started the ‘Pesiar’ health initiative in Pongkar village to ensure Universal Health Coverage at a village level. Aligned with the SDGs Village’s health goals and the Presidential Instruction of 2022, this program seeks to cover 98% of villagers under the National Health Insurance by 2024.

Source: Gokepri (2023)