Rising Cases of Sexual Harassment by Rogue Doctors: Professor from UIN Jakarta’s Medical Faculty Urges Stricter Oversight of Medical Practice
Faculty of Medicine, UIN Jakarta, UIN Online News – The recent surge in sexual harassment cases involving rogue doctors has once again shaken the medical community and the public. In response, Prof. dr. Flori Ratna Sari, Ph.D., a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, UIN Jakarta, emphasized that such actions do not reflect the noble values of the medical profession and do not represent doctors as a whole in Indonesia.
"What these rogue doctors have done was never taught in medical education—in fact, it is strictly prohibited as it clearly violates patient rights, breaches medical ethics, and serves as a crucial evaluation point for medical academia, education, and practice," said Prof. Flori.
Prof. Flori stressed that medical curricula strongly emphasize ethics and professional codes as foundational principles in clinical practice. Together, medical institutions, professional organizations, colleges, and medical councils oversee the implementation of these ethics in the profession. Thus, she expressed regret that some individuals still violate these fundamental principles.
Furthermore, Prof. Flori asserted that such cases should not merely become fleeting news but should prompt serious reflection on strengthening ethical implementation and oversight—both during medical education and in professional practice. Integrating ethics, religion, and law into medical education could be a concrete step, such as prohibiting doctors and patients of the opposite sex from being alone in examination rooms to prevent potential violations or misunderstandings.
"For doctors proven guilty, legal sanctions must be enforced as a lesson for the offenders and a warning to others. Moreover, this incident should serve as a moment of reflection to reinforce the noble role of doctors—from education to practice. The training of doctors, especially Muslim doctors, must be continually evaluated to produce professional, responsible, and accountable medical practitioners who respect patient and colleague rights. Oversight of medical practice must also be tightened," she added.
For practicing doctors, Prof. Flori urged all professionals to uphold the original noble intent of their vocation, prioritize humanitarian values, and exercise prudence in every medical action. She also highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of peer accountability, self-awareness, and speaking up against potential violations. Prof. Flori warned that tolerating misconduct could lead to severe consequences, including license revocation for serious offenses.
"It is vital for all of us to remind one another in safeguarding the dignity of this noble profession. Do not hesitate to speak up against deviations—this is for patient safety, professional integrity, and a secure healthcare environment," she concluded.
(Rizkiyah Gustiana N./Zaenal M./Noeni Indah Sulistiyani/Photo: PIH)