FK-KMK UGM. Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), through its Academic Health System (AHS) team, held a workshop on Monday (23/12) to update the Strategic Plan for the Academic Health System (2025–2029). Taking place at El-Hotel Yogyakarta Malioboro, the workshop aimed to design strategies addressing future healthcare challenges, including shortages of medical personnel, disparities in healthcare facilities, and improving service quality in Indonesia.
- Sudadi, Sp.An-TI, Subsp.N.An(K), Subsp.An.R(K), Chair of the AHS UGM team, highlighted significant progress since the system’s inception in 2019.
“Since 2022, we have accelerated the AHS development, particularly following the issuance of a Joint Decree by the Ministers of Health and Education. This policy forms a crucial foundation to meet the demand for doctors and specialists in Indonesia, which remains far below ideal standards,” he explained.
Throughout 2024, the AHS team conducted roadshows across the UGM Faculty of Medicine network and RSUP Dr. Sardjito, engaging ten hospitals interested in joining the network. These include RSUD Prambanan, RS Mata Dr. Yap, and RSJ Grhasia. The initiative outlined four main priorities until 2029: healthy aging, maternal and child health, disaster resilience, and the development of health tourism.
In 2023, AHS UGM hosted a meeting in Semarang to draft a roadmap for development through 2029. Broader collaborations were achieved during the 2024 FK-KMK Dies Natalis celebration, marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BPJS Kesehatan. This agreement supports the development of big data for health research, strengthening the AHS network.
However, challenges persist, particularly concerning hospitals’ perceptions of their role as teaching hospitals. dr. Haryo Bismantara, MPH, Secretary of AHS UGM, pointed out that, internationally, teaching hospitals are considered strategic partners for universities.
“In Indonesia, however, some hospitals view student oversight as a concern. This poses a hurdle that needs resolution for optimal collaboration with educational institutions,” he stated.
Health disparities were also noted by M. Agus Priyanto, S.K.M., M.Kes., Head of the Health Resources Division at DIY Health Office. Sleman’s superior health facilities contrast with under-resourced areas like Gunungkidul.
“Seventy percent of ambulances in DIY are community-operated, reflecting an urgent need to enhance health infrastructure,” he said.
Similarly, Yunita Dyah Suminar, SKM., M.Sc., M.Si., Head of Central Java Health Office, emphasized the low ratio of specialists in Central Java, standing at 0.29 per 1,000 residents, far below WHO standards.
“Some areas, such as Kebumen and Karanganyar, lack Type B hospitals. Additionally, 127 public health centers in the region still require 137 more medical personnel,” she explained.
The event underscored UGM’s commitment to tackling health challenges by empowering the AHS network in Yogyakarta, Central Java, and East Kalimantan. The signing of partnerships with ten new collaborators on March 5, 2025, represents a concrete step toward expanding health services rooted in education.
Special affirmations were also designed for participants in the Specialist Medical Education Program (PPDS) to increase the availability of competent medical personnel in the future.
“We hope AHS will become the driving force in transforming the national health system, addressing existing challenges, and fostering collaboration between hospitals, universities, and the broader community,” concluded dr. Sudadi.
This strategic initiative aligns with FK-KMK UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). (Isroq Adi Subakti/Reporter).
