Philips Partners with Indonesian Government to Enhance Healthcare Access

In a significant advancement for healthcare access across Indonesia, the Ministry of Health has partnered with Royal Philips to implement a nationwide deployment of advanced image-guided therapy systems. This initiative aims to improve care for patients suffering from cardiac conditions, strokes, and cancer—three of the leading causes of mortality in the country. The official announcement was made in Jakarta on July 29, 2025, as part of the Strengthening Indonesia's Healthcare Referral Network (SIHREN) project, which is jointly funded by the World Bank and other multilateral development banks.

According to Indonesia's Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, this partnership represents a critical step towards addressing the healthcare disparities faced by the nation’s population of over 280 million. "Our goal is to ensure that every Indonesian has access to high-quality medical care, regardless of their location," Sadikin stated during the press conference.

The initiative will involve the installation of Philips' state-of-the-art Azurion image-guided therapy systems in hospitals across all 38 provinces of Indonesia, including remote and rural areas. Historically, advanced medical care has been concentrated in Java, leaving rural populations underserved. By establishing a comprehensive network of therapy rooms, this project seeks to deliver minimally invasive treatments to millions of patients nationwide.

Roy Jakobs, CEO of Royal Philips, emphasized the transformative potential of this technology. "Delivering better care for more people requires strong partnerships and the best innovations. We’re honored to be Indonesia’s partner of choice to deliver our innovation directly where it's needed most," he stated. Jakobs added that minimally invasive procedures can drastically reduce recovery times and hospital stays, thus enhancing patients' quality of life.

The implementation of the Azurion systems aligns with the growing need for advanced healthcare solutions in Indonesia, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are on the rise. A report published by the World Health Organization in 2023 estimated that NCDs would impose an economic burden of approximately USD 4.47 trillion on the country if left unaddressed. As a result, the SIHREN initiative is not only a health intervention but also an economic strategy aimed at reducing future costs associated with untreated diseases.

Carla Goulart Peron, Chief Medical Officer at Philips, pointed out that minimally invasive techniques significantly lower postoperative pain and complications compared to traditional methods. "This initiative will revolutionize NCD care in Indonesia, making advanced treatments accessible to populations that have previously faced barriers to care,” she explained.

The Ministry of Health's commitment to long-term healthcare transformation includes training for healthcare professionals to ensure effective use of the new technology. Astri R. Dharmawan, President Director of Philips Indonesia, highlighted this aspect, stating, "Our combined efforts with the Indonesian government will help close healthcare gaps and bring us closer to a Healthy Indonesia."

As the initiative rolls out, it is expected to create a ripple effect across various sectors, including education and employment. With Philips employing over 3,900 individuals in Indonesia and operating a manufacturing facility in Batam, the project also promises to bolster local economies and job markets.

The partnership between the Indonesian Ministry of Health and Philips exemplifies a strategic approach to healthcare delivery that prioritizes accessibility and quality of care. As this project unfolds, it may serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar healthcare challenges, particularly in regions with diverse geography and population distribution. The broader implications of this initiative could contribute significantly to achieving Universal Health Coverage, as envisioned by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

In conclusion, the deployment of advanced image-guided therapies in Indonesia underscores a proactive step towards bridging healthcare disparities and enhancing the overall well-being of millions. As the country continues its health transformation journey, the collaboration between government and private sectors will be pivotal in shaping a healthier future for all Indonesians.