This step is taken as an effort to accelerate the equitable distribution of health services.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin on Saturday said this policy will commence in January 2026, in addition to salaries, service fees, and other allowances for specialist doctors, bringing their total income in the regions to reach Rp40-50 million (US$2,298-2,873) per month.
"We will give an allowance for specialist doctors willing to work in remote areas an additional Rp30 million per month," he said.
He explained that this policy targets areas that currently lack specialist doctors, such as Nias, Maluku, Papua, and other remote areas.
In addition to financial incentives, the government is also providing supporting facilities in the form of official housing and vehicles.
"Besides money, we also provide housing and facilities for them to be more comfortable working in the regions," Sadikin continued.
According to the minister, the distribution of specialist doctors remains a serious challenge.
With a population of around 280 million, the annual output of only around 2,700 specialist doctors is considered insufficient to meet national needs.
To accelerate the supply of medical personnel, the government is also promoting fellowship programs and hospital-based specialist doctor education.
"If we wait for normal education, it can take four to eight years. We are accelerating this through a one-year fellowship," he pointed out.
He noted that the placement of specialist doctors must be accompanied by the availability of medical equipment to ensure optimal service delivery.
"It is pointless to send specialist doctors if the equipment is not available. So, equipment and human resources must work hand in hand," he emphasized.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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