Robotic technology is beginning to take on a larger role in Indonesia’s healthcare system as the government seeks new ways to address growing health challenges, particularly stroke. To respond to these challenges, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is accelerating the adoption of healthcare robotics as part of its broader Health Technology Transformation agenda
As one of the country’s leading causes of death and disability, stroke continues to place significant pressure on healthcare services, driving the need for more effective rehabilitation solutions and long-term patient support.
Rather than replacing medical professionals, the technology is intended to strengthen healthcare services and help providers deliver more precise, efficient, and sustainable treatment.
Dr. Yuli Farianti, Director General of Health Human Resources at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the supportive role of robotics within the healthcare sector.
“Robots are not here to replace healthcare workers. Instead, this technology is designed to strengthen capacity and support healthcare professionals so they can provide more effective, precise, and sustainable care for patients,” said Dr. Yuli.
The urgency behind these efforts is reflected in the scale of the stroke burden across Indonesia. In 2023, approximately 3.9 million Indonesians were living with stroke. The disease was responsible for more than 337,000 deaths and contributed around 6.5 percent of the global disability burden caused by stroke.
Read also: Bali Welcomes Athletes From 17 Countries for Asian Swimming Championship
According to Dr. Yuli, the consequences of stroke extend far beyond mortality rates. Many survivors experience long-term physical and cognitive impairments that affect their quality of life, productivity, and ability to live independently. As a result, demand for rehabilitation services continues to grow.
“Rehabilitation is no longer a complementary service. It has become an essential part of modern healthcare because it plays a vital role in helping patients regain function and independence,” she said.
The increasing demand for rehabilitation care is also reflected in healthcare spending. Within just one year, claims related to stroke treatment rose sharply from Rp2.7 trillion to Rp5.6 trillion, highlighting the growing need for recovery services and patient support.
As part of the ongoing transformation of the national healthcare system, the Ministry of Health is building an integrated healthcare robotics ecosystem. The initiative involves stronger collaboration between universities, hospitals, and industry partners while also establishing policies that support future technological development.
The ministry is not only focusing on current applications but is also laying the groundwork for future innovations in the healthcare sector.
“We are establishing a National Healthcare Robotics Committee and laying the foundation for training centers, healthcare services, and robotics innovation hubs. At the same time, we are preparing a regulatory framework that supports future innovations, including robotic telesurgery and the development of domestic healthcare technologies,” Dr. Yuli explained.
The government sees robotics as a tool to expand access to quality healthcare, strengthen national healthcare capabilities, and improve recovery outcomes for patients. These goals remain central to the development of healthcare robotics across the country.
Beyond technology itself, Dr. Yuli stressed that collaboration will be equally important in shaping the future of neurorehabilitation. She highlighted the need for cooperation among researchers, healthcare institutions, industry players, and policymakers across Indonesia and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
“The future of neurorehabilitation will not be determined solely by technological progress, but also by the strength of collaboration. By combining science, innovation, and strong partnerships, we can help more Indonesians restore function, regain independence, and build new hope,” she said.
The Ministry of Health hopes that every advancement in healthcare robotics will deliver tangible benefits to patients and society. The ultimate objective is to help more individuals recover successfully and return to productive, meaningful lives.
Closing her remarks, Dr. Yuli reiterated that innovation should always remain focused on patient outcomes and improving lives.
“Let us ensure that every innovation we develop serves one primary purpose: helping patients recover better, live better, and return to productive and meaningful lives,” Dr. Yuli concluded.
