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FK UPH Launches Neurology Specialist Program with Focus on Pain Management
08-July-2025
Universitas Pelita Harapan's Faculty of Medicine (FK UPH) has officially unveiled its new Neurology Specialist Program, a crucial step toward addressing the pressing need for neurologists across Indonesia. The program is now accepting applications for the 2025/2026 Academic Year.
This initiative comes as a direct and tangible response to the high prevalence of neurological diseases, particularly stroke, which the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey (SKI) identified as a significant health and economic burden. The medical condition in which blood stops flowing to a part of the brain affects 8.3 per 1,000 people and contributes to Indonesia's third-highest healthcare cost of a staggering Rp5.2 trillion in 2023 alone.
"The distribution of neurology specialists remains uneven across various regions," noted the Neurology Specialist Program Director Prof Dr dr Yusak M.T. Siahaan, SpN(K), FIPP, CIPS.
"FK UPH seeks to play a strategic role in producing neurologists who are competent and responsive to public health challenges." With only around 2,732 neurologists nationwide as of 2024, uneven distribution due to limited facilities remains a key issue.
What sets UPH's program apart is its specialized focus on pain intervention management. This unique emphasis directly addresses the common complaint of pain among neurology patients.
Students will train with cutting-edge technology, including advanced MRI machines and specialized equipment for various neurological conditions, ensuring comprehensive learning. They'll also gain hands-on experience in specialized clinics and access to advanced treatments like Deep Brain Stimulation.
The four-year program is highly selective, accepting only candidates under 35 who have completed their medical internships, have valid medical registrations (STR), and hold Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. UPH envisions the program to become a leading international standard in neurology education, particularly in pain intervention.
"We are committed to producing graduates who can make significant contributions to the development of neurology and meet the health needs of the community," said Prof. Yusak. "The ultimelate goal of this program is to cultivate highly skilled, ethical neurologists ready to make a positive impact on Indonesian healthcare scene."
The program is yet another proof that as an educational institution rooted in Christian values, UPH consistently provides transformative education to produce medical specialists who are God-fearing, excel in their field, and have a positive impact on society and the nation.