Professor of SKHB IPB University Supports DKI Jakarta’s ‘Animal BPJS’ Discourse: Give Double Benefits
Prof Dr drh Gunanti, Professor of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (SKHB) IPB University expressed his support for the discourse of the Animal BPJS program initiated by the Provincial Government (Pemprov) of DKI Jakarta.
“This program is very important, because animals, both domesticated and wild, can get access to proper health services. This will reduce animal suffering and improve their quality of life,” she said.
The “BPJS Hewan” program was designed by the Jakarta Provincial Government to help underprivileged animal owners to access veterinary services through subsidies or discounted fees at the Animal Health Center (Puskeswan).
Moreover, according to Prof Gunanti, this program also has a positive impact on public health. “This program plays a role in preventing zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. So, there is a double benefit: for animal welfare and public health,” she explains.
Although this idea is considered strategic, she predicts that its implementation in the field will face a number of challenges. These include infrastructure readiness, human resources, and a supportive regulatory framework.
“Animal health service facilities in Jakarta must be increased in capacity to cope with the surge in demand. In addition, the availability of competent veterinarians and veterinary medical personnel is crucial,” she said.
As the Director of the Teaching Animal Hospital (RSHP) of IPB University, Prof Gunanti also emphasized the importance of veterinary regulations that support the overall implementation of the program. “We need standardized veterinary services and a clear zoonotic disease control system,” she added.
One important component in supporting this program is the animal identification system using microchip technology. This system is considered effective for tracking animals that have received services, as well as preventing duplication of subsidies.
“However, to be effective, the microchips used must have uniform standards and be readable in all facilities. The database must also be integrated so that it can be accessed by all parties involved,” Prof Gunanti explained.
In terms of ethics, she considers the use of microchips acceptable as long as the installation procedure is done safely and does not harm the animals.
“I personally strongly support it, but the question is, does the government have the funds to procure these microchips? The cost, if I’m not mistaken, is around one million rupiah per animal, including the installation,” she said.
She suggested that the installation be done on the back, as is a common procedure applied to wildlife by the forestry service.
“I think if we start from Jakarta and West Java first, through veterinary clinics, joint clinics, and animal hospitals, it can be done. The important thing is that there is support from the government,” concluded Prof Gunanti. (IAAS/RWA).
