In a statement received on Tuesday, he highlighted the need for making such health services available in smaller regions, and not just metropolitan areas.
"I see that in almost all areas, the diseases are predominantly stroke and heart disease. The problem is that in districts or cities far from the provincial centers, delayed treatment of these diseases can lead to serious issues," he remarked.
He delivered the statement during a visit to Dr. Baharuddin Regional Hospital in Muna district, Southeast Sulawesi, on Monday, accompanied by Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin.
Jokowi stressed that health services must be made complete by ensuring the availability of specialist doctors who can operate advanced tools.
The hospital’s director, Muhammad Marlin, said that it employs four types of basic specialist doctors: pediatricians, surgeons, obstetricians/gynecologists (ObGyns), and internists. It also has other specialists, such as ophthalmologists, orthodontists, and psychiatrists.
"We expect that in the current basic specialty services, there will be more additions in the number of pediatricians and surgeons. As for internists, there are two, and there are three ObGyns," he said.
According to him, the regional hospital serves at least 226,000 people residing in Muna district. However, this number could be higher, as the hospital also serves as a referral center for the West Munda and Central Buton districts.
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Reporter: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Anton Santoso
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