Electronic Sick Leave Certificate on Telemedicine Service Implementation in Indonesia: A Legal Consideration

Abstract

Telemedicine service has been developed in Indonesia and its use has increased during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. This service makes it easier for people to get health services without meeting face-to-face. One of them is getting electronic medical certificates i.e. sick leave. However, problems arose regarding the legitimacy of electronic sick leave certificate (e-sick leave) through telemedicine services. This study aims to analyse the legal aspects of electronic sick leave in Indonesia. This research was normative research with statue and conceptual approach. Regulations in Indonesia have not discussed in detail the provision of electronic sick leave through telemedicine services. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Indonesian Medical Council Regulation Number 74 of 2020 was issued which permitted the issuance of sick certificates in telemedicine services with due observance of the principles of caution and high accountability. However it does not regulate in detail the provision of electronic sick leave through telemedicine services. Further regulations comprising of specific requirements and procedures are needed in Indonesia regarding telemedicine services, specifically in order to have valid electronic sick leave certificate issuance that can guarantee patient safety and accountability. Technological support is also needed to support the examination of patients in telemedicine services. Issuance of electronic sick leave requires collaboration between health care facilities and companies.