The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) of the Republic of Indonesia officially released the investigation results regarding the medical treatment of the late Dr. Icha. Based on the investigation team's findings, the medical actions taken by Kefamenanu Regional Hospital and Leona Hospital for the patient suffering from a snakebite met applicable standard operating procedures (SOP).
Yuli, a representative of the Ministry of Health, emphasized during an online press conference that the administration of Snake Antivenom (SABU) cannot be given haphazardly. According to her, the use of the serum must be based on precise clinical indications to avoid risks that could endanger patient safety. This medical decision was made based on strict evaluation stages that the medical team had to fulfill.
In addition to the medical aspects, the Ministry of Health highlighted incidents of intimidation and verbal abuse experienced by Dr. Icha prior to her passing. This phenomenon has raised deep concern regarding the lack of protection for medical and healthcare workers while performing their professional duties in the field.
The Ministry of Health assesses that there is a significant coordination gap among Healthcare Facilities (Fasyankes), Health Offices, and Local Governments in ensuring safety and support for healthcare workers. This systemic condition, which is not yet operating optimally at the regional level, is now a critical note for the central government to address immediately.
The government emphasized that it will evaluate the implementation of healthcare worker protection, which is actually regulated under the Health Law and its derivative regulations. Strengthening this protection system is considered crucial so that medical personnel can work without the shadow of intimidation or external pressure.
