Journal of Public Health Indonesian
Vol. 3 No. 3 (2026): SEPTEMBER-JHH

Social Determinants of Health Inequities in Indonesia: Examining the Interplay Between Socioeconomic Status, Access, and Health Outcomes

Muhammad Faizal (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Sep 2026

Abstract

Health inequity remains a major challenge within Indonesia’s human development system. Although various national health insurance programs have been expanded, disparities in health status across population groups and regions are still frequently observed, strongly indicating the influence of structural factors beyond medical aspects alone. This study aims to analyze the social determinants underlying health inequities in Indonesia, focusing on the reciprocal interactions among socioeconomic status, healthcare accessibility, and population health outcomes. This study uses a quantitative analytical approach by analyzing large-scale national survey data from Indonesia. Multivariable regression models and path analysis are used to measure the extent to which income, educational attainment, and geographic barriers mediate disparities in health outcomes, such as morbidity rates and utilization of medical facilities. The findings show that socioeconomic status particularly educational attainment and household income has a significant direct effect on individuals’ ability to access quality healthcare services. Geographic and financial barriers exacerbate these inequalities, resulting in substantial differences in health outcomes across population groups. People of lower socioeconomic status face a higher risk of morbidity due to limited access to promotive and curative services. Health inequities in Indonesia are strongly influenced by structural socioeconomic inequalities and disparities in access to healthcare services. Therefore, public health policies must not focus solely on providing medical facilities but must also be integrated with efforts to address the root causes of socioeconomic disadvantage and ensure equitable access across regions.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

JHH

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology

Description

Journal of Public Health Indonesian: Jurnal Kesehatan Masyarakat is an international, peer-reviewed journal. It publishes original papers, reviews and short reports on all aspects of the science, philosophy, and practice of public health. It is aimed at all public health practitioners and ...