Indonesia is facing a critical shortage of specialist doctors, a crisis that threatens to widen healthcare inequality across the country. With only around 2,700 specialists graduating each year, the gap is alarming, especially considering that 25,000 more will be needed within the next decade. To help close this doctor shortage faster in Indonesia, the Ministry of Health is turning to artificial intelligence (AI), data integration, and teleconsultation as part of its national health transformation.
Setiaji, Expert Staff for Health Technology and Head of the Health Technology and Digitalization Transformation Team (TTDK) at the Ministry, emphasized how AI can help deliver services faster than traditional methods.
“If we rely solely on producing doctors, it will take us 10 years. But with technology, services can reach people much faster, even in remote areas,” he said during the Future Health Index 2025 forum in Jakarta on Wednesday (July 23, 2025).
He pointed to telesurgery as one example. This remote surgical technique allows specialists in urban hospitals to operate on patients in distant regions using robotic systems and internet connections. Such technology offers hope for equalizing access to specialist care, especially in underdeveloped areas.
Digital infrastructure is also a priority. The SATUSEHAT platform, launched in 2022, continues to evolve as the Ministry works to consolidate health records nationwide.
“We want all health data to be consolidated. Doctors need to know what medication a patient has taken before, whether they have allergies, and so on. That makes diagnosis and treatment far more accurate,” Setiaji explained.
These records are connected to the SATUSEHAT Mobile app, already in use for free health checks at public clinics. But the data collected isn’t just about the sick. It’s also helping to detect hidden health issues among the seemingly healthy population—those who might otherwise go unnoticed in routine screenings.
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The Ministry is also developing AI models to make healthcare spending more efficient. One project focuses on diabetes risk prediction. Instead of screening all 90 million people, AI helps pinpoint the 30% most likely to be at risk. This way, the government can allocate resources more effectively and reach those who need help the most.
Radiology analysis is another area where AI is being implemented. AI tools are now used to interpret CT scans and X-rays, provide virtual consultations based on patient data, and analyze information from wearable devices like smartwatches to monitor daily habits.
Still, the Ministry warns that AI is not meant to replace doctors. Clinical decisions must remain in human hands. “Doctor validation is still essential, along with upholding ethical principles and data security. Patients must also give their consent,” Setiaji said, referencing the World Health Organization’s six guiding principles for ethical AI use.
To manage the integration of new technologies, the Ministry has introduced a regulatory sandbox program. This system allows new tech to be tested and reviewed before being made available to the public. “Some are being guided, while others aren’t yet viable due to unmet legal, privacy, or clinical validation requirements,” he explained.
In addition, partnerships are being built with private companies, insurers, and tech platforms. The goal is to speed up service integration and provide real-world evidence of AI’s effectiveness in improving care.
While AI is no cure-all, its potential to support doctors and widen healthcare access is clear. With careful oversight, data transparency, and ethical safeguards, Indonesia may be able to turn a doctor shortage and health crisis into a transformation opportunity, one that ensures no region is left behind.
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