Indonesia Sees Opportunities in Global Nurse Shortage
With a global demand for nurses reaching 6.4 million, Indonesia stands at a strategic intersection. The country’s Health Ministry and the Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) are poised to capitalize on this need through regulatory adjustments and workforce preparation initiatives.
Capitalizing on Global Nurse Demand
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin emphasizes that sending Indonesian health workers overseas not only addresses the global shortage but also enhances their quality of life. Earnings for Indonesian nurses abroad are significantly higher than local standards. For instance, nurses in Japan earn approximately Rp30 million (US$1,788) per month, while those in Germany can earn up to Rp50 million (US$2,981) monthly.
However, current numbers show potential for growth. Sadikin notes that Indonesia dispatches fewer than 10,000 health workers internationally annually. This is a fraction of the country’s capability, given the 38 health polytechnics operated by the Health Ministry.
The minister advocates increasing the number of workers sent abroad. He initially aims to double the annual dispatch to 2,000, targeting an eventual figure of 5,000 to 10,000 health workers annually.
Streamlining Procedures for Migrant Workers
Minister Abdul Kadir Karding of P2MI outlines steps being taken to align with global standards for migrant worker placements. Simplifying procedures is a priority, focusing on health checks. Karding aims to reduce superfluous tests, making the process more efficient and less burdensome on workers.
To further ease financial pressures, the ministry is searching for a sustainable financing model to standardize health check prices across regions. Ensuring affordability will increase the number of eligible workers interested in international opportunities.
Preparing the Workforce Through Education
Education is a cornerstone of the strategy. P2MI is supporting health polytechnics in preparing specialized workers for specific markets. Two institutions are expected to focus on German and Japanese standards, ensuring compliance and readiness for international placements.
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