Title:
The Extent of Indonesian Public Policy in Addressing Factors Influencing Rural Retention of General Practitioners, Cardiologists, and Neurologists as The Critical Actors during The ‘Golden Hour’ of Cardiovascular Diseases Management
Authors:
Afidah, Nur
Place:
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Publisher:
KIT Institute
Year:
2025
PAGE:
46
Language:
En
Subject:
Rural Innovation Systems
Keywords:
rural retention, medical workforce, cardiologists, neurologists, health policy
Abstract:
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and disability in Indonesia. Timely treatment within the “golden hour” significantly reduces death and disability. General practitioners (GPs), cardiologists, and neurologists are critical providers of acute CVDs management. However, GPs are underrepresented in rural areas, while most cardiologists and neurologists are concentrated in urban centers of western Indonesia, leaving rural populations underserved in accessing timely, life-saving CVDs care. This study aims to identify the factors influencing the retention of GPs, cardiologists, and neurologists in rural Indonesia and to analyze the extent to which public policies address these factors. Methodology: This study is a literature and policy review. The Lehmann et al. (2008) framework was used to analyze retention factors, chosen for its focus on retention challenges, policy and governance analysis, and consideration of international influences. Results: The work environment is the strongest factor influencing long-term retention. Sustained commitment depends on supportive workplaces, adequate infrastructure, and career development opportunities. Although Indonesia implements various initiatives for retaining GPs, cardiologists, and neurologists in rural areas, the most comprehensive and structured policies focus on general practitioners. Specialist-specific measures are fewer, less integrated, and rarely ensure long-term service in underserved districts. Conclusion: Indonesia’s public policies partially address key retention factors but lack cohesive, cadrespecific strategies. A bundled retention approach is recommended, integrating targeted recruitment, compulsory rural service, equitable incentives, supportive living conditions, structured reintegration programs, and continuous professional development tailored to each cadre.
Organization:
KIT Institute/Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT Institute
Country:
Indonesia
Region:
Southeast Asia
Training:
Master of Science in Public Health and Health Equity
Category:
research
Right:
©2025 Afidah
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
y4r5OEWs14_20251211125457677.pdf