Health Savings Education as a Complement to BPJS to Improve Community Health Literacy in Bontang City

Edukasi Tabungan Kesehatan sebagai Pendamping BPJS untuk Meningkatkan Literasi Kesehatan Masyarakat di Kota Bontang

Abstract

The arrears in BPJS Kesehatan contributions in Bontang City indicate the low level of public financial literacy in planning health financing, which can hinder access to health services. Therefore, a health savings education program was conducted as a BPJS companion through video screenings and flyer distribution. The goal of this activity was to improve public health literacy, encourage compliance with BPJS contributions, and foster health savings habits. The program was implemented at the Bontang Selatan 2 Community Health Center, targeting the general public, both active and inactive BPJS participants, especially those at risk of defaulting on contributions or those who do not yet have a savings habit. The Participatory Action Research (PAR) method was used, emphasizing active community involvement in the learning process. The results of the activity showed community enthusiasm in participating in the program, as evidenced by participation in watching videos, discussions, and completing questionnaires. More than 80% of respondents understood the importance of health savings and were motivated to start independently. The Community Health Center assessed this program as beneficial for supporting health promotion, thus concluding that health savings education can improve community understanding, attitudes, and motivation in planning health financing. It is recommended that similar programs be integrated into routine health promotion programs at the Community Health Center and that the sustainability of community health savings be monitored.