The broader concept of public health is now moving in a more progressive direction through the “Check Early, Live Better” approach. The Free Health Check (CKG) program symbolizes the transformation of the health paradigm in Indonesia, from a focus on treatment to a greater emphasis on prevention and early detection. This approach is not just a slogan, but a fundamental strategy for creating a better and more sustainable quality of life for all. Health is no longer viewed as a supplementary sector, but rather as the primary foundation for human resource development.
Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, emphasized the importance of promotive and preventive approaches as the key to maintaining public health. He emphasized that although life expectancy in Indonesia continues to increase, there is a significant gap between life expectancy and healthy life expectancy. This fact indicates that many people are living longer, but not in full health. This situation is a serious alarm that the success of health development is measured not only by longevity but also by the quality of life lived.
Furthermore, Budi revealed that the average Indonesian woman can live to 76 years old, but only about 66 of those years are spent in good health. This means a decade of life is spent in ill health, primarily due to non-communicable diseases such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure. This fact is not only an individual health issue but also impacts family productivity and the national economy.
In facing these challenges, preventive measures are crucial. Budi emphasized the importance of simple yet impactful habits, such as regularly checking blood pressure, maintaining blood sugar levels through the HbA1c indicator, and controlling cholesterol levels. Awareness of these basic health indicators is the key to preventing chronic diseases, which have been the leading cause of death in Indonesia. With early detection, treatment can be initiated more quickly, medical costs can be reduced, and people’s quality of life can significantly improve.
Budi believes that housewives have great potential as the frontline in maintaining family health. Women naturally have a strong nurturing instinct, so when equipped with basic health knowledge and tools, they can become agents of change at the household level. The idea of making women the spearhead of the national health defense system is a strategic step that is not only effective but also sustainable.
Meanwhile, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development and Head of the National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN), emphasized that women’s health is the primary foundation of human resource development. She highlighted the importance of a lifecycle approach to maintaining health, from pregnancy to old age. This approach demonstrates that health is not a standalone issue, but rather part of the life journey that must be maintained consistently and sustainably.
Isyana also highlighted the importance of postpartum family planning services as a strategy for maintaining maternal and child health. With appropriate birth spacing and careful pregnancy planning, health risks can be minimized. However, significant challenges remain, as evidenced by the maternal mortality rate, which remains at 189 per 100,000 live births. This figure serves as a reminder that efforts to improve the quality of health services must be continuously strengthened.
Furthermore, the approach to women’s health must encompass mental aspects, not just physical ones. Mental health is an integral part that cannot be ignored, given the social, economic, and dual role pressures women often face. With a holistic approach, it is hoped that women’s quality of life can improve comprehensively, ultimately impacting their families and communities.
In its implementation, the CKG program is a crucial instrument in encouraging behavioral change in the community. Fatma, Head of the Health Services Division of the Central Sulawesi Health Office, emphasized the importance of regularly utilizing health services. The CKG program, accessible once a year, especially on birthdays, provides a moment for individual health reflection. Through this examination, various non-communicable diseases can be detected early, allowing for more effective treatment.
Changing public mindsets is key to the success of this program. Until now, many people still only visit health facilities when they are already sick. However, a preventive approach is far more efficient and has better long-term impacts. By developing the habit of regular health check-ups, people will be more aware of their physical condition and more proactive in maintaining their health.
“Check Early, Live Better” is not just a campaign, but a national movement that requires the active participation of all elements of society. The government has laid the foundation through policies and programs, but the success of its implementation depends heavily on individual and family awareness. By prioritizing early detection, strengthening the role of women, and developing a culture of healthy living, Indonesia has a significant opportunity to create a society that not only lives longer but also lives a quality life.
)* The author is a public health observer