International Accreditation Expected not to Burden Patients
Wednesday, 15 February, 2012 | 13:18 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:Several state hospitals, including Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM), are applying for international accreditation. The House of Representatives’ (DPR) Commission IX says it supports the move as long as it improves services and will not burden low-income patients.

According to the commission’s deputy chief, Irgan Chairil Mahfidz, international standards for state hospitals should result in improved services without increased costs.

“If RSCM wants to be internationally oriented, low-income patients must be served properly. They shouldn’t ignore or reject patients,” he said.

RSCM director, Prof. Dr dr Akmal Taher, promised not to increase the rate for patients as a result of the international accreditation. He also added that RSCM receives government funding. “If there is any rate increase, it could be due to other factors, such as an increase in commodity prices,” said Akmal.

MUNAWWAROH | MITRA TARIGAN