UNDIP, Semarang (21/3) – Amid the limited healthcare services in underdeveloped, border, and island regions(Daerah Tertinggal, Perbatasan, dan Kepulauan / DTPK), the presence of specialist doctors remains highly crucial. This fact is signified by an alumna of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, dr. Dewi Sartika, Sp.BS, who now serves as a neurosurgeon at RSUD Harapan Insan Sendawar, West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan, while also providing neurosurgical services to communities that previously had limited access.
In underdeveloped, border, and island regions (DTPK), the presence of dr. Dewi has become an important milestone in healthcare services. She is known as one of the few female neurosurgeons who chose to pursue her career in an area with limited facilities and complex geographical challenges. Through her role, neurosurgical services are now accessible to residents without the need for long-distance referrals to major cities.
As a neurosurgeon, dr. Dewi handles various complex cases, ranging from head injuries, hemorrhagic stroke, hydrocephalus, brain tumors and spinal disorders. In practice, precision, quick decision-making, and mental resilience are essential in every medical procedure she performs.
dr. Dewi’s professional journey cannot be separated from the role of the Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Diponegoro as the educational institution that shaped both her competence and character. According to her, the values of service instilled during her education at UNDIP’s Faculty of Medicine served as the foundation for her career path.
“Every lecturer at UNDIP’s Faculty of Medicine always taught us that there are still many remote regions in Indonesia that have not received proper healthcare services. That is where our role as doctors is truly needed,” said dr. Dewi to the UNDIP team on March 11, 2026.
In addition to the values of service, the clinical education and residency system at UNDIP’s Faculty of Medicine also played a significant role in preparing her to face limitations in the field. Exposure to diverse medical cases at teaching hospitals, including Dr. Kariadi General Hospital, sharpened her clinical instincts and rapid decision-making abilities.
“When supporting facilities in remote areas are limited, I rely again on the anamnesis and comprehensive physical examination skills that were rigorously taught by my mentors at UNDIP. The ability to think tactically and make decisions under pressure is a valuable legacy from my residency years,” she explained.
The presence of dr. Dewi in West Kutai has not only expanded access to specialist healthcare services, but also become a symbol that quality medical care can reach remote areas. She has proven that UNDIP graduates are capable of contributing not only to major healthcare centers but also to regions where they are needed most.
Furthermore, her dedication has become an inspiration for younger generations, especially women, demonstrating that there are no limits in the medical profession, including in neurosurgery. This field demands high precision and resilience.
In closing, dr. Dewi shared a message with UNDIP students, urging them to pursue their education with integrity and empathy.
“A medical degree is not merely a profession, but a responsibility. Do not only pursue academic excellence, but also cultivate empathy and humility. Be proud to be part of the resilient and integrity-driven Universitas Diponegoro family,” she said.
The story of dr. Dewi Sartika is a clear representation of UNDIP’s role in producing specialist doctors who are not only clinically competent but also courageous in serving communities, providing quality healthcare services, and making a real impact throughout Indonesia. (Public Communication/UNDIP/FK UNDIP Public Relations/ed. Nurul)
Source: FK UNDIP Website