Death of Young Doctor Sparks Concerns Over Treatment of Healthcare Workers

Jakarta: The tragic death of Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, better known as Dr. Icha, has sparked concerns over the treatment of healthcare workers in Indonesia.
 
Dr. Icha was found dead by suicide at her home in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), on Friday, June 26, 2026. Prior to her death, she had reportedly been intimidated by three members of the North Central Timor (TTU) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) while treating a child who had been bitten by a snake at Leona Hospital on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Investigators have linked the incident to her death.  
 
“The mental health of healthcare workers must be taken seriously. They face heavy workloads, emotional strain, and even conflicts. The state must ensure they receive adequate protection,” remarked Netty Prasetiyani Aher, a member of Commission IX of the House of Representatives (DPR), in a written statement on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
 
She added, “we urge the Ministry of Health to conduct regular mental health screenings for healthcare and medical personnel to prevent further tragedies from happening.”
 
Netty emphasized the need to protect healthcare workers serving in emergency departments (IGD), intensive care units (ICU), disaster zones, and conflict areas, stating, "they are the frontline of healthcare services, facing immense pressure day after day. The state is obligated to protect their physical and mental wellbeing.”
 
She also called for the implementation of strict internal standard operating procedures (SOPs) in healthcare facilities to protect workers from external threats.
 
“There must be clear systems in place to ensure a safe and supportive working environment,” Netty said.
 
Dr. Icha was only 27 years old.
 
(Jonathan Sianto)