The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) of the Republic of Indonesia has finally presented the results of a deep investigation into the death of dr. Icha in North Central Timor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The investigation focused on three main points: the accuracy of the procedure for administering Snake Anti-Venom Serum (SABU), suspected acts of intimidation in the Emergency Department (IGD) environment, and the weak protection system for healthcare workers on duty.
Director General of Health Workers at the Ministry of Health, Yuli Farianti, emphasized that the administration of SABU must not be done carelessly. According to her, the serum must be given based on strong medical indications and through an accurate clinical assessment by professional healthcare workers. Administration that does not follow the correct procedures risks endangering the patient's life instead of providing healing.
Aside from clinical aspects, the investigation team found allegations of intimidation against dr. Icha at Leona Kefamenanu Hospital. This phenomenon is suspected to be a triggering factor that worsened the situation, ultimately leading to the tragic event. The Ministry of Health highlighted that the coordination of protection for medical personnel in healthcare facilities is currently not optimal, preventing rapid intervention when incidents occur.
As a strengthening measure, the Ministry of Health recalled the mandate of Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health, particularly Article 273. The regulation guarantees the right of medical personnel to be protected from all forms of treatment that degrade their dignity, honor, or constitute bullying. Healthcare workers are even given the legal authority to suspend services if they face threats of violence or harassment for their own safety and the quality of care.
