Background
This study investigates disparities in the utilization of primary health care (PHC) between urban and rural populations in Indonesia, focusing on socioeconomic and demographic determinants. Understanding these patterns is essential for promoting equity under the National Health Insurance (Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional, JKN) program.
Methods
Data were obtained from the 2023 National Socioeconomic Survey, which included 334,887 individuals. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between individual characteristics and PHC utilization.
Results
Overall utilization rates were similar across urban and rural areas, but significant disparities were observed. Women were more likely to use PHC than men (odds ratio [OR], 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10–1.13). The association between higher education and PHC utilization was negative (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.75–0.81), while access to information technology slightly reduced utilization (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96–0.99). Wealth effects diverged sharply: affluent urban residents were less likely to use PHC (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.81–0.87), whereas wealthier rural residents were more likely to utilize PHC (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05–1.13). Dual insurance ownership had a strong positive effect in rural areas (OR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.25–1.94).
Conclusion
These findings highlight structural inequalities in PHC utilization. Policy efforts must prioritize enhancing the quality and attractiveness of PHC in urban areas, improving financial protection and infrastructure in rural areas, and addressing the digital divide. Such targeted measures are essential for achieving equitable and inclusive health coverage under JKN.

Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Indonesia has led to an increase in mental health problems, especially among those with comorbid hypertension. Uncontrolled hypertension is the primary comorbidity of COVID-19. Thus, this study aimed to determine the pattern of uncontrolled hypertension at two time points during the pandemic and to confirm its relationship with common mental disorders (CMDs).
Methods
This longitudinal study was conducted at two time points (2019 and 2021), and the data of individuals with hypertension was sourced from the Bogor of Noncommunicable Diseases Risk Factors Cohort Study. Data of 1,231 respondents who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the analyses. The Self-Reported Questionnaire-20 was used to measure CMDs (score of >6). This study used a generalized estimating equation to analyze the data.
Results
The percentage of those with uncontrolled hypertension increased from 57.6% to 66.4%, whereas those with CMDs increased from 6.1% to 11.5%, from 2019 to 2021. The risk of uncontrolled hypertension was higher in patients with CMDs than in those without CMDs. The risk of uncontrolled hypertension increased from twice (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.071–2.069) in 2019 to 3 times (aOR, 2.765; 95% CI, 2.243–3.287) in 2021.
Conclusion
Since stress increases the risk of developing uncontrolled hypertension, individuals with hypertension must be able to manage their stress. Apropos this, the governments should provide mental health consultation services in treating patients with hypertension, especially during adverse events such as pandemics.

Citations

• A year of significant progress for the Korean Journal of Family Medicine
  Seung-Won Oh
  Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2026; 47(1): 1.     CrossRef

Background
Hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy affect mothers’ mental health. Because depression during pregnancy is closely associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, treatment is important for pregnant women with depression. This study aimed to identify barriers to treatment-seeking behaviors among pregnant women with depression in Indonesia.
Methods
Data from the 2018 Indonesian Basic Health Research were used, which focused on pregnant women aged 15–54 years who exhibited depressive symptoms. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview was used to assess depression. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the factors affecting treatment-seeking behaviors.
Results
Among the pregnant women in Indonesia, 7.9% experienced depression; however, only 11.4% sought treatment. Higher transportation costs to the clinic were associated with 41% lower odds of seeking treatment (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37–0.95; P=0.029). Women in their second and third trimesters had 48% (AOR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.28–0.98; P=0.042) and 54% (AOR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.24–0.89; P=0.022) lower odds of seeking treatment, respectively, than those in their first trimester.
Conclusion
Financial barriers and the challenges of late pregnancy hinder treatment-seeking behaviors for depression in pregnant women. Therefore, there is an urgent need for affordable and accessible mental health care for vulnerable populations.

Citations

• Family medicine for all stages of life: turning knowledge into actionable care
  Joung Sik Son
  Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2026; 47(2): 95.     CrossRef