The case of the passing of Dr. Eliza Priscila Utami Pakaenoni, affectionately known as Dr. Icha, in North Timor Tengah Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has sparked deep concern. This tragic event is strongly suspected to have been triggered by severe mental pressure resulting from verbal intimidation she experienced while on duty in the emergency room (ER).
Based on investigation results from the Ministry of Health, evidence was found of bullying by certain parties as well as a lack of a coordination system capable of providing tangible protection for healthcare workers in the relevant health service facilities. This underscores that current protection mechanisms still contain significant loopholes and are not operating effectively on the ground.
This situation has made the public realize that the healthcare profession, standing on the front lines of humanitarian service, remains highly vulnerable to violence and bullying. High workloads, especially when handling emergency situations, should not be compounded by psychological threats that endanger the lives of medical personnel.
In response to this emergency situation, the government is currently processing the drafting of a Presidential Regulation on the Security and Safety Protection of Medical and Healthcare Personnel. This regulatory step is a crucial response to creating a sturdier legal umbrella for medical practitioners in Indonesia.
Nevertheless, the arrival of new regulations must serve as a reflection for all stakeholders to evaluate the effectiveness of existing rules. The state is required not merely to formulate policies, but to genuinely guarantee a sense of security so that healthcare workers can carry out their humanitarian duties without fear of intimidation.
