MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – The Provincial Government of North Sumatra, led by Governor Bobby Nasution, has announced an accelerated program to upgrade community health centers (Puskesmas) into inpatient facilities in remote regions. The policy follows a recent incident in Arse District, South Tapanuli Regency, where a pregnant woman had to be carried on a stretcher for more than 30 kilometers due to the absence of proper road access and the long distance to the nearest hospital.
Governor Bobby made the statement on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) at the Governor's Office in Medan, emphasizing that such cases must not be overlooked and that the government must take greater responsibility in ensuring equitable public services.
Call for Urgent Action in Remote Healthcare Access
Read Also: Trail of The Kings by UTMB 2026 to Draw Runners From 33 Countries to Lake Toba Bobby expressed his condolences to the affected family in South Tapanuli and described the incident as a wake-up call regarding persistent gaps in regional healthcare delivery.
"We extend our deepest sympathy. This is a shared responsibility among local governments to ensure that healthcare services are more accessible to the community," he said.
He noted that the main challenge in many remote areas is not only limited medical facilities, but also inadequate transportation infrastructure, which continues to hinder access to essential health services.
STRENGTHENING HEALTH AND ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE: The North Sumatra Provincial Government plans simultaneous improvements in healthcare services and road infrastructure to enhance access in remote regions. (PHOTO: Doc. North Sumatra Communication and Information Office)
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The provincial government plans to upgrade Puskesmas located more than 30 kilometers from the nearest hospital into inpatient healthcare centers.
"Puskesmas that are located more than 30 kilometers from a hospital will be upgraded into inpatient health centers. This program will be accelerated this year," Bobby stated.
Read Also: Bobby Nasution Expands North Sumatra-Netherlands Cooperation on Food Security and Energy He also urged district and city administrations to evaluate existing health centers according to established standards. Once they meet the requirements, the provincial government will provide financial support for further development.
Program Advanced to 2026 Implementation
Originally scheduled for 2027, the program has now been moved forward to 2026 following additional support from the central government.
In addition to healthcare improvements, the provincial administration is also prioritizing road infrastructure development in remote areas to improve access to medical facilities.
Read Also: North Sumatra Accelerates Waste-to-Energy Project with Danantara MoU "We are not only supporting the program but also its funding. Now it is up to the regencies and cities to submit their proposals," he added. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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