Indonesia’s Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has called on the state health insurer, BPJS Kesehatan, to improve its data management practices following a significant and unexpected increase in the number of individuals removed from the subsidized national health insurance program, PBI JKN. The issue came to light during a meeting with leaders of the House of Representatives (DPR) on Monday.
Data Discrepancies Raise Concerns
Typically, around one million beneficiaries are deactivated each month as part of routine data updates. However, in February 2026, approximately 11 million people – nearly 10 percent of the total 98 million PBI JKN participants nationwide – were removed from the program. Finance Minister Sadewa questioned the sudden surge, stating, “This is what caused the shock. Why did it suddenly become so high in February this year?”
While data updates are intended to improve the targeting of assistance to poor and vulnerable communities, Minister Sadewa emphasized the importance of avoiding public anxiety and maintaining trust in the health system. He expressed concern that individuals may discover their loss of coverage only when seeking essential treatment, such as dialysis.
Proposed Solutions and Next Steps
To address the issue, Minister Sadewa proposed a more gradual approach to deactivations, potentially including a grace period of two to three months. He also stressed the necessitate for clear public communication and outreach to ensure affected individuals are aware of their status and can make alternative arrangements.
BPJS Kesehatan may implement a phased approach to data updates in the coming months. Analysts expect increased scrutiny of the program’s data management practices. Further meetings between the DPR and government officials are a possible next step to discuss implementation of the proposed changes. The government assumes many of those affected were unaware they had been removed from the list, suggesting a need for improved notification procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PBI JKN?
PBI JKN is the National Health Insurance fee assistance program for subsidized national health insurance.
How many people were affected by the recent removals?
Approximately 11 million people, nearly 10 percent of the total 98 million PBI JKN participants nationwide, were removed from the program in February 2026.
What is the government proposing to do about this issue?
The government is proposing that future deactivations be carried out gradually, with a grace period of two to three months, and with clear public communication.
As healthcare access remains a critical issue for many, how can governments best balance the need for efficient program management with the imperative of ensuring equitable access to essential medical care?
