Legal protection of medical personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the legal protection of medical staff in Indonesia during the Covid-19 outbreak. This study is a descriptive qualitative study that examines the legal protection of medical staff in Indonesia using positive law. Secondary legal materials, such as books, journals, articles, and other written works, as well as field phenomena, are used to write the article. According to the study's findings, the Covid-19 outbreak in Indonesia has placed a significant strain on the country's healthcare system, especially on healthcare employees. The most evident issue is the safety of medical staff at the frontline, who are extremely vulnerable to being exposed to Covid-19, risking their lives. Furthermore, issues of mental health, such as the danger of burnout syndrome, pose significant concerns. Unfortunately, there are no guidelines or practices in place to protect their mental health. Legal protection for health workers during the Covid-19 pandemic consists of preventive protection efforts and repressive protection efforts. The government provides preventive protection through a vaccination program. Repressive protection is given by the Government by imposing sanctions for perpetrators of violence and discrimination against health workers who are on duty. Besides, the Government has provided incentives and death benefits.