Ministry advocates risk management for sustainable health system

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Health has emphasized the importance of managing risk factors to ensure a sustainable health system, advocating for policies that can be implemented by various stakeholders.

"Health financing is increasing every year, rising by 7.8 percent annually. This indicates that we need to take action," Head of the Health Development Policy Agency at the Ministry of Health, Asnawi Abdullah said here on Wednesday.

He explained that non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, significantly contribute to healthcare costs. In response, several initiatives have been introduced, including the Free Health Screening (CKG) and Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programs.

Abdullah assessed that free health screenings facilitate early detection of health risks, enabling preventive measures before conditions develop into severe illnesses. In addition, the MBG initiative encourages children to adopt healthy eating habits.

"Our government is also working to regulate trans fats. We are strengthening food labeling and providing the public with healthier choices," he remarked.

He underscored the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle, adding that Ministry of Health employees now report their daily step count as part of the initiative.

Meanwhile, Deputy for Coordination of Health Quality Improvement at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture Sukadiono noted that his ministry is coordinating with relevant ministries to address key risk factors.

Those key risk factors include excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and fats.

Furthermore, he said, monitoring and evaluation are conducted to ensure the initiatives are running.

Chairperson of the Indonesian Health Office Association (ADINKES), Muhammad Subuh, highlighted the crucial role of regional governments in establishing a sustainable health system, citing policies such as the implementation of smoke-free zones.