Jakarta, December 1 – The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) reports widespread discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, including difficulties accessing healthcare and enduring prejudiced treatment while seeking medication. The party marked World HIV/AIDS Day by hosting hundreds of sufferers from the Greater Jakarta area at Dunia Fantasi,Ancol,to raise awareness and advocate for their rights.
Ribka Tjiptaning, a PDIP representative, emphasized that discriminatory actions are unacceptable, stating, “No one wants to be sick; everyone wants to be healthy.” She underscored the essential right to health for all individuals, a principle PDIP intends to champion. The reports highlight a critical gap in healthcare access and societal acceptance for those living with the virus, potentially hindering treatment adherence and overall well-being.
According to Tjiptaning, many individuals face significant obstacles in obtaining necessary medications, sometimes resorting to purchasing them independently and enduring lengthy delays and discrimination at hospitals. She described instances of patients spending hours-from 5:00 AM to 4:00 PM-at medical facilities, often needing to bring their own food.
PDIP is actively working to ensure those without BPJS (Indonesia‘s national health insurance) recieve coverage, recognizing the lifelong and costly nature of HIV/AIDS treatment. “It’s a long, lifelong treatment, you have to continue receiving treatment. Yes, it’s also expensive, the same kind of medication,” Tjiptaning added.the party’s efforts aim to alleviate the financial burden and improve access to consistent care for this vulnerable population.