Indonesia has embarked on an exciting journey towards revolutionising its healthcare landscape by embracing the power of 5G technology and introducing the groundbreaking concept of Robotic Telesurgery. This ambitious endeavour aims to elevate the quality of healthcare services, overcome geographical barriers, and provide access to cutting-edge surgical procedures for patients nationwide.
In support of the government’s agenda through the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, a pilot test and demonstration of the implementation of the 5G Robotic Telesurgery (remote robotic surgery) use case, the first of its kind in Indonesia is being conducted.
Robotic Telesurgery is one of the innovative use cases that harness the power of the 5G network, supported by a private network company in Indonesia, enabling the healthcare realm to enhance productivity and efficiency.
In the real-time implementation of Robotic Telesurgery technology, a large bandwidth capacity and low latency are required for data controlling functions, intra-abdominal accurate image transfer, and video communication. In the pilot test and demonstration, the doctors are located at RSUP Dr Hasan Sadikin in Bandung, while the patients are at RSUP Dr Sardjito in Yogyakarta. The distance between Bandung and Yogyakarta is approximately 563 km.
Reliable and low latency 5G network infrastructure is utilised at both pilot project hospital locations to accommodate Robotic Telesurgery. It ensures high visual precision and ergonomic remote instrument accessibility and reduces the risk of complications during surgical procedures and recovery.
Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dante Saksono Harbuwono, explains that telerobotic surgery technology is beneficial for addressing the shortage of specialist surgeons and eliminates geographical barriers and distance limitations. This technology can assist surgeons and patients in remote areas, providing them access to the latest surgical procedures.
Considering that Indonesia is an archipelago with thousands of islands, this advanced technology addresses the country’s geographical challenges, reducing the risks and dangers associated with long-distance travel.
Director of Planning and Transformation at the private network, Wong, stated that in continuing the commitment to make the leading 5G broadband network ecosystem, both the government and private sector must take a leading role in implementing mobile digital services and solutions that exceed user expectations and support the nation’s economic growth.
The partnership between the private sector and the public hospitals showcases the synergy in driving technological innovation to benefit the nation’s healthcare landscape. By pushing the boundaries of technology in healthcare, Indonesia demonstrates its commitment to embracing the digital era and harnessing its transformative potential.
The government is optimistic that such collaborations can continue with all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and national healthcare service providers, to explore further opportunities for advancement in accelerating the digital transformation of national healthcare services. It will bring progress in the healthcare sector and various other industries that can support the nation’s development.