"Hello Kemkes" Operates 24 Hours to Provide Information on JKN

Jakarta (Antara) - The health ministry is operating a 24-hour "Hello Kemkes" customer service phone number, 021-500567, in order to assist all those seeking information about the National Health Insurance (JKN) Scheme. "Since the implementation of the JKN scheme on January 1, 2014, the health ministry, through "Hello Kemkes", at phone number 021-500567, has been flooded with calls from people seeking more information about the JKN scheme," Murti Utami, a spokesman of the health ministry, remarked in a statement issued on Monday. Looking at the overwhelming public response, the ministry has decided to make the "Hello Kemkes" helpline service operational round-the-clock. Previously, "Hello Kemkes" operated only during working hours. "Almost 300 callers have been served. Most questions are related to the eligibility criteria for availing the JKN scheme and information about the locations to register for it," she added. To become a member of the JKN, a person must visit the nearest Social Security Management Agency (BPJS) office for registration, along with copies of his or her ID, Family Card, and two photos measuring 3x4 cm. He/she is required to fill the registration form at the office. After going through the aforementioned process, the prospective member will receive a payment slip of the BPJS membership fee. The payment can be done in three banks appointed by the BPJS, namely Bank Mandiri, BNI, or BRI. After the payment, the prospective member is required to re-visit the BPJS office in order to present the payment receipt from the bank and collect the JKN card. The JKN clients are required to pay a premium of Rp59.5 thousand per month for class I plan, Rp42.5 thousand per month for class II plan, and Rp25.5 thousand per month for class III plan. Those falling in the poor category will be covered by the JKN scheme for free, as their membership fees will be paid by the government. (*)