Emergency Medical Care in Indonesia: Where to Go for Fractures and Food Poisoning
Emergency Medical Care in Indonesia: Where Tourists Should Go for Injuries and Poisoning
Traveling to Indonesia is an adventure: surfing, volcanoes, tropical food, and vibrant culture. However, unforeseen situations like fractures or food poisoning can ruin a holiday. It’s crucial to know in advance where to seek emergency medical assistance in popular tourist destinations — from Bali to Yogyakarta.
This article covers which clinics operate 24/7, where serious injuries are treated, and what to do in case of intoxication. You'll also find practical recommendations, including emergency phone numbers and action steps.
How the Emergency Care System Works in Indonesia
Indonesia’s healthcare system includes public and private medical facilities. In tourist areas such as Bali, Jakarta, Lombok, and Yogyakarta, there are modern hospitals that accept foreigners and provide emergency medical services in English. Private clinics typically offer higher levels of service but require full prepayment.
Common reasons for seeking care include:
- Fractures, sprains, injuries from falls or road accidents;
- Foodborne and chemical poisoning;
- Bruises from active recreation (surfing, diving, scooters);
- Dehydration and viral gastrointestinal infections.
Fractures and Injuries: Top Clinics and Treatment Protocols
Injuries are among the most frequent emergencies for tourists. Below is a list of recommended clinics based on severity and location.
Bali
| Facility | Type | Specialty | Services | Language/Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanglah General Hospital Rumah Sakit Umum Pusat Sanglah |
Public | Traumatology, Surgery | MRI, surgery, emergency care | Indonesian, some English; not JCI-accredited |
| BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua | Private | Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine | Fracture treatment, 24/7 monitoring | English, JCI-accredited |
Tip: If you suspect a fracture (pain when moving, swelling, bruising, deformity), go to the nearest hospital immediately. For severe injuries, Sanglah Hospital (public and high-capacity) is recommended. For minor traumas, BIMC offers comfort, service, and an English-speaking team.
Jakarta and West Java
- Royal Progress Hospital (MH Thamrin) – A private hospital with a trauma department.
- Siloam Hospitals Group – A nationwide network offering orthopedic care and English-speaking staff.
- RSUP Dr. Hasan Sadikin, Bandung – A public hospital equipped for complex trauma cases, including traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Lombok and Yogyakarta
- RSUD NTB, Mataram – The largest public hospital in Lombok, with on-call trauma surgeons and 24/7 admission.
- RSA UGM, Yogyakarta – University hospital affiliated with UGM, with a well-developed surgery and orthopedics department.
Treatment of Metatarsal Fractures
These injuries are common among active tourists. If the condition is stable and non-urgent, appointments can be scheduled in advance.
Recommended clinics:
- Kasih Ibu Hospital (Bali)
- Mayapada Hospital (Jakarta)
- Premier Surabaya Hospital (Surabaya)
Food and Chemical Poisoning: Protocols and Where to Get Help
Foodborne illnesses are the most common reason for hospitalization in tourist-heavy areas of Indonesia, especially during the rainy season. Seek medical help if you experience:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 12 hours;
- Severe dehydration (dry mouth, fainting);
- Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) for over 24 hours;
- Hallucinations or confusion (possible severe intoxication).
Clinics in Bali
| Clinic | Type | Specialization | Approx. Cost | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klinik Lingkar Medika | Private | Gastroenterology, Toxicology | from IDR 600,000 (~$35) | Indonesian, English |
| Silom Hospital Bali | Private | Emergency Medicine | from IDR 800,000 (~$50) | English, JCI-accredited |
Mass Cases and Public Response Facilities
In group incidents (e.g., school outbreaks, festival poisoning), regional response protocols are activated. Commonly involved facilities include:
- RSUD Al Ihsan, Bandung — Infectious disease unit and testing laboratory.
- RSUP Dr. Sardjito, Yogyakarta — High readiness to treat foreign patients.
National Protocols for Treating Poisoning
The Indonesian Ministry of Health protocols include:
- Initial assessment and medical history intake;
- Blood/stool tests for toxins and pathogens;
- Resuscitation procedures (in severe cases);
- IV and antibacterial therapy;
- Observation for a minimum of 24–48 hours.
What to Do in a Medical Emergency
Emergency Numbers and Hotlines
- Ambulance: 118 or 119
- Police (for traffic accidents): 110
- Ministry of Health Hotline: +62 21 500567
Step-by-Step Action Plan:
- Call 119. The operator may speak English.
- If the ambulance is delayed — order a taxi or Grab and go to the nearest clinic.
- At the clinic, present your passport and travel insurance policy (if available).
- Ask for a written diagnosis and receipt — required for insurance claims.
- Save the clinic’s contact details for potential follow-up care.
What to Bring to the Clinic:
- Original passport
- Copy of insurance policy
- List of current medications and chronic conditions (in English)
- Cash or bank card (if visiting a private clinic)
Conclusion
Emergency medical care in Indonesia is provided by both public and private institutions. Tourists should note:
- For injuries and fractures in Bali — the best options are Sanglah General Hospital (public) or BIMC Hospital (private, tourist-friendly);
- In cases of poisoning — in Bali, choose Klinik Lingkar Medika; in Jakarta — Siloam Hospitals or Mayapada;
- For serious trauma in other regions — visit major public referral hospitals (RSUP, RSUD) open 24/7.
Key advice: Don’t delay a medical visit — especially if experiencing severe pain, vomiting, or head injuries. The sooner the treatment begins, the more effective it is — particularly in a hot climate and remote location.
Save this article before your trip — it could protect your health or even save your life.
