HOLOPIS.COM, JAKARTA – An Indonesian lawmaker has called on the government to strengthen protections for healthcare workers, saying safe working conditions are essential to ensuring quality medical care and protecting frontline personnel from intimidation and excessive workplace pressure.
Netty Prasetiyani Aher, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission IX, which oversees health affairs, said healthcare workers should be able to perform their duties without fear of threats or intimidation.
“Healthcare workers need a safe working environment so they can provide the best possible care for patients. They should never face intimidation or pressure while carrying out their professional duties,” Netty said, Holopis reported, Saturday (4/7).
She said the government has a responsibility to guarantee both the physical safety and legal protection of healthcare workers across Indonesia.
Beyond physical protection, Netty stressed that mental health support should become a national priority, citing the heavy workloads and emotional challenges faced by doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel.
“Mental health must be treated as a serious issue for healthcare workers. They face heavy workloads, emotional stress, and, in some situations, conflicts while performing their duties. The government must ensure they receive adequate protection,” she said.
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According to Netty, the issue was discussed during a meeting between Commission IX and Indonesia’s Minister of Health.
She urged the Ministry of Health to introduce regular mental health screenings for healthcare workers and medical professionals to help identify psychological issues before they become more serious.
“We encourage the Ministry of Health to conduct routine mental health screenings as an early detection measure. We should not wait until another tragedy occurs before taking action,” she said.
Netty also called for comprehensive psychological support programs for healthcare workers, medical professionals, specialist medical trainees, and resident doctors.
She said such support is particularly important for personnel working in high-pressure environments, including emergency departments, intensive care units, disaster response operations, and conflict-affected areas.
“They are on the front lines of healthcare every day under extraordinary pressure. The government has an obligation to ensure they have strong support systems, both for their mental well-being and their safety at work,” she said.
She added that hospitals should establish clear procedures to protect healthcare workers from intimidation, threats, or conflicts that may arise while treating patients.
“Hospitals should never leave healthcare workers to face pressure alone. There must be clear systems for protection, support, and reporting so they can carry out their duties safely and professionally,” Netty said.