Evaluation and Supervision

Oct 13, 2025 by vinooalluri.com 82 views

The User's Perception of the Policy on the Exemption of Basic Health Service Fees at the Medan City Health Center in 2004: Increasing Access and Quality of Health Services

Introduction

The early 2000s economic crisis had a profound impact on public health, leading to decreased food consumption and increased vulnerability to disease. Unfortunately, many people were unable to afford health services, resulting in low utilization rates. To address this issue, the Medan City Government issued a policy decision (Mayor of Medan No. 50 of 2001) to provide motivation and support for medical expenses. This policy aimed to exempt basic health service fees at the Medan City Health Center, promoting access to healthcare services.

Background

The economic crisis of the early 2000s had far-reaching consequences for public health. Decreased food consumption led to increased morbidity, while many people struggled to afford health services. This created a vicious cycle, where those in need of healthcare were unable to access it due to financial constraints. In response, the Medan City Government implemented a policy to exempt basic health service fees at the Medan City Health Center. This policy aimed to increase access to healthcare services and improve the quality of care provided.

Methodology

This study employed a cross-sectional method with a qualitative and quantitative approach. A total of 100 respondents were selected purposively from the community user health service in three Puskesmas (Petisah Puskesmas, Belawan Health Center, and Mandala Health Center). Data was analyzed statistically using the Chi-Square test to examine the relationship between the user's perception of the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees and the frequency of visits to the Puskesmas.

Results

The results showed that respondents primarily sought treatment at the three Puskesmas due to the free service offered. They also expressed concerns about experiencing complications due to their illnesses. Respondents were generally satisfied with the policy, feeling that it met their expectations. They also praised the services provided by the Puskesmas, citing the dedication, discipline, skills, and hospitality of the health workers.

Discussion

The study found a significant association between the user's perception of the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees and the frequency of visits to the Puskesmas. This suggests that a positive perception of the policy is linked to increased utilization of healthcare services. The study concluded that the perception of Puskesmas service users regarding the policy on the cost of levying basic health services is in the good category, indicated by a frequency of utilization of more than 4 times.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, several suggestions were made to increase access and quality of health services at the Medan City Health Center:

Improve Socialization

The Medan City Government, particularly the Medan City Health Office, needs to increase socialization to the community user policy regarding the benefits and mechanisms for liberating the cost of basic health services. This will help to raise awareness and promote understanding of the policy among the community.

Evaluation and Supervision

Regular evaluation and supervision of basic health service activities in the Puskesmas are essential to ensure policy effectiveness and minimize potential deviations. This will help to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the policy is implemented as intended.

Quality Assurance Program

The Medan City Government needs to organize a quality assurance program on a sustainable manner. This program can include training for health workers, providing adequate medical devices, and improving Puskesmas infrastructure. This will help to ensure that healthcare services are of high quality and meet the needs of the community.

Recommendations

With structured and sustainable efforts, it is hoped that more people in Medan City will use health services in the Puskesmas, leading to improved access and quality of healthcare services. The Medan City Government should prioritize the implementation of the policy and provide ongoing support to ensure its success. By working together, it is possible to create a healthcare system that is accessible, equitable, and of high quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the User's Perception of the Policy on the Exemption of Basic Health Service Fees at the Medan City Health Center in 2004

Q: What was the main objective of the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees at the Medan City Health Center in 2004?

A: The main objective of the policy was to provide motivation and support to the community in terms of medical expenses, with the goal of increasing access to healthcare services.

Q: How did the economic crisis of the early 2000s impact public health in Medan City?

A: The economic crisis led to decreased food consumption, increased morbidity, and reduced access to healthcare services due to financial constraints.

Q: What was the methodology used in this study to examine the user's perception of the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees?

A: The study employed a cross-sectional method with a qualitative and quantitative approach, involving 100 respondents selected purposively from the community user health service in three Puskesmas.

Q: What were the main reasons cited by respondents for seeking treatment at the Puskesmas?

A: Respondents primarily sought treatment at the Puskesmas due to the free service offered and concerns about experiencing complications due to their illnesses.

Q: What was the association found between the user's perception of the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees and the frequency of visits to the Puskesmas?

A: The study found a significant association between a positive perception of the policy and increased utilization of healthcare services, with respondents visiting the Puskesmas more frequently.

Q: What are the implications of this study for improving access and quality of health services at the Medan City Health Center?

A: The study suggests that improving socialization, evaluation and supervision, and quality assurance programs are essential for increasing access and quality of health services.

Q: What are the recommendations for the Medan City Government to implement the policy effectively?

A: The study recommends that the Medan City Government prioritize the implementation of the policy, provide ongoing support, and ensure that healthcare services are of high quality and meet the needs of the community.

Q: How can the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees be sustained in the long term?

A: The policy can be sustained through regular evaluation and supervision, quality assurance programs, and ongoing socialization and education of the community about the benefits and mechanisms of the policy.

Q: What are the potential benefits of implementing the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees?

A: The policy has the potential to increase access to healthcare services, improve health outcomes, and reduce health disparities in Medan City.

Q: What are the potential challenges in implementing the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees?

A: The policy may face challenges such as inadequate resources, lack of awareness among the community, and resistance from healthcare providers.

Q: How can the policy on the exemption of basic health service fees be evaluated and monitored?

A: The policy can be evaluated and monitored through regular surveys, focus groups, and other forms of community engagement, as well as through statistical analysis of healthcare utilization and health outcomes.