Inge Dhamanti
Cardiovascular
Indonesia

My mother, who is 68 years old, recently experienced an episode of unusual chest pain. I accompanied her to the hospital to consult with a cardiologist. During the initial consultation, she met with Dr. A, who without conducting or awaiting any diagnostic tests immediately suggested that she might be experiencing a heart attack and may even require surgery. This alarming conclusion was delivered hastily and without evidence.

Following that consultation, my mother underwent a series of diagnostic tests. However, by the time the results were ready, Dr. A had finished his shift, and she was referred to another doctor a female physician who appeared more friendly and approachable in her demeanor. When my mother inquired whether she had a heart condition, the doctor did not provide a clear or direct response. Instead, she vaguely mentioned a few lifestyle adjustments my mother should consider. I observed the consultation quietly, choosing not to intervene, as I wanted to see how the doctor would communicate with my mother independently.

At the end of the visit, the doctor informed us that the assessment was complete and instructed us to proceed to the pharmacy to collect the prescribed medication.

Once we stepped out, I reviewed the test results myself. All findings were within normal limits, with no indication of a heart attack or any significant abnormality on the contrary, the results were reassuring. Despite this, at the pharmacy, my mother was given two types of heart medication to be taken daily. Given the normal test results, I am firmly convinced that these prescriptions were unnecessary. Moreover, the total cost of the medications exceeded one million rupiah a considerable amount for treatment that, based on the evidence, was unwarranted.

Unfortunately, this type of situation is not an isolated case. It reflects a broader, systemic issue that occurs all too frequently within the Indonesian healthcare system where overprescription, insufficient communication, and a lack of evidence-based decision-making continue to compromise patient trust and safety. We need to make a change!