Indonesia Launches Free Health Check-up Program for All

The Indonesian government is set to roll out a comprehensive Free Health Check-up Program for all age groups, starting in February 2025. The initiative, designed to detect a range of health conditions, will focus on cardiovascular diseases and age-related health issues, alongside early detection of conditions common in children and adolescents.

The program was announced as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s Quick Best Results Program (PHTC) for 2025, with spokesperson for the Presidential Communications Office, Dedek Prayudi, providing key details in a statement issued on Friday.

Early Detection of Congenital Disorders

The government’s health check-up program will cover a variety of age groups, beginning with toddlers. Prayudi explained that the health assessments for this age group will primarily focus on detecting congenital disorders, including congenital hypothyroidism.

He emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that timely treatment of conditions such as hypothyroidism could help mitigate the risk of mental retardation in children. This early intervention is crucial for ensuring that children reach their full developmental potential.

Adolescent Health Screenings

For adolescents, the health screening will focus on conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and oral health, including dental checks. These conditions, according to Prayudi, often begin to develop in childhood and adolescence, making early detection crucial to prevent long-term health problems.

Prayudi referred to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF’s endorsement of health screenings for children, highlighting that such screenings play a vital role in detecting early health issues that could affect a child’s overall well-being. “Health screening helps early detection of health problems, such as malnutrition, anemia, hearing loss, and vision impairment,” he said.

In addition to providing early insights into potential health issues, Prayudi noted that identifying these problems early allows for faster and more effective interventions, contributing to the broader goal of achieving a healthier Indonesian population by 2045.

Focus on Cancer and Cardiovascular Health

For adults, the program will offer cancer screenings, targeting common forms of the disease, including breast, cervical, lung, and colon cancer. These screenings are intended to detect signs of cancer early, offering patients a better chance of treatment before the disease reaches advanced stages.

Elderly Indonesians will also benefit from the program, with screenings focusing particularly on cardiovascular diseases, as well as other conditions associated with the aging process. Early detection of such diseases is crucial for managing health and preventing life-threatening complications.

Access to Free Health Check-ups

The government has ensured that accessing the free health check-ups will be straightforward. Individuals can visit their nearest health center or health facility and present their identity card to receive the services.

Prayudi also underscored the value of the program, pointing out that the services provided are typically expensive if paid out-of-pocket. “The value is big if paid with their own money,” he said, further emphasizing that maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular screenings can lead to greater productivity and prosperity, benefiting both individuals and the nation as a whole.

By offering these health check-ups, the government aims to improve overall public health and reduce the burden of preventable diseases, contributing to the long-term well-being of Indonesia’s citizens.