UNAIR NEWS – Independence is understood in a more general view by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Universitas Airlangga Prof. Dr. Soetojo, dr., Sp.U (K), thorough in all life aspects of community. Like freedom in conveying ideas, independence in getting education, to independence in obtaining quality healthcare services.
“As long as this independence remains within the corridor of the morality of religion, the 1945 Constitution, and Pancasila as the basis of the state,” he said.
In the aspect of education, Soetojo viewed that there is now a wide open opportunity for anyone to go to college, as well as the Bidikmisi education assistance program that successfully provides an opportunity for anyone to be able to enjoy the college education. So there is no such thing as discrimination between the rich with the poor, the city children and the village children.
Through Bidikmisi, Soetojo hoped, this program is not only for the university level, but as wide as possible allocated for elementary to high school education as well.
“We hope the cost of education can be cheaper by the advance of time. The government needs to increase the education budget for it,” he said.
Looking at the problem of unequal distribution of medical personnel in the country, Soetojo believed that freedom to get quality healthcare services is very necessary to fight, especially for people living in peripheral or remote areas. Therefore, it needs the full support of the government in order to realize affordable and comprehensive healthcare for the community anywhere without discrimination.
“The government needs to consider aspects of security, welfare, and availability of healthcare facilities. It will facilitate the medical personnel in providing health services, “he said.
In addition to curative aspects, it is no less important promote the preventive programs or prevention of disease. This program must be massively disseminated to the community. Therefore, prevention programs are considered more effective in suppressing the incidence rate of a disease.
“Therapy is the last act if people are already severely ill. What is more important now is how to prevent people from getting sick. Obviously by instilling awareness early on, “he said.
In order to have such alertness in the community, the doctors need to collaborate with the health personnel in Puskesmas or with active health cadres. To ensure the sustainability of the program, full government support is required.
“Independence is a moment of mutual struggle. And the freedom we feel now cannot be separated from the services of the heroes. Their spirit of struggle should inspire the next generation of this nation, “he concluded. (*)
Author: Sefya Hayu
Editor: Binti Q. Masruroh
