In recent years, health technology in Indonesia has continued to develop very rapidly, the progress of information technology has also grown rapidly. Currently, medical devices such as tensimeters, thermometers, blood measurement tools, scales, contact lenses and others are increasingly easy to use by the public and are widely available on the market, both sold online and offline.

The development of health and information technology in Indonesia has had a positive impact in facilitating public access to various medical devices. The ease of obtaining these medical devices has enabled people to be more proactive in maintaining personal and family health.

The medical devices used independently by the community aim to monitor health conditions on a regular basis, as well as to serve as first aid when medical emergencies occur such as fever, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. With regular monitoring, one can immediately take the necessary actions or consult medical personnel if needed.

In addition to medical devices, our daily lives are inseparable from Household Health Supplies (PKRT) such as floor cleaners, laundry soap, hand sanitizer, clothes deodorizers, baby diapers, mosquito repellent and others are also widely used in daily life. PKRT also has an important role in maintaining hygiene and health in the household. Proper and wise use of PKRT can help prevent the spread of disease, maintain environmental hygiene, and provide protection for family members.

What are Medical Devices and Household Health Supplies?

Medical Devices (Alkes) are non-medicinal instruments used to prevent, diagnose, cure and alleviate diseases, treat the sick, restore health in humans, form structures and improve body functions.

Meanwhile, Household Health Supplies (PKRT) are tools, materials, or a mixture of materials for the maintenance and treatment of human health, which are intended for use in households and public facilities.

How to be smart and wise in choosing and using medical equipment and PKRT?

The medical devices and PKRT that we use must be useful, high quality, affordable and safe. Inappropriate use will cause various risks. Therefore, we must be smart and wise in choosing medical devices and PKRT products.

Before using Alkes and PKRT, there are several steps that need to be taken to ensure their optimal and safe use.

Here are some things to consider before using Alkes and PKRT:

• Check the distribution license

To ensure quality and safety, Alkes and PKRT products must have a distribution permit issued by the Indonesian Ministry of Health. The distribution permit consists of a unique 11-digit number preceded by the letter code AKD/PKD for domestic medical devices/PKRT and AKL/PKL for imported medical devices/PKRT. To check which Alkes or PKRT are safe and have a distribution permit, you can go through the mobile application that can be downloaded at playstore and appstore or through the infoalkes dashboard at the link http://infoalkes.kemkes.go.id  

• Read how to use

Make sure to read the information on the product packaging and labeling such as purpose, instructions for use, side effects, expiration date etc.

Do not use products that have expired as this may reduce their effectiveness and safety.

• Use as directed in the package

Follow the instructions carefully to ensure proper use. Improper use may result in inaccurate measurements, poisoning, allergies, irritation and missed objectives.

• Pay attention to the warnings on the packaging.

What is the proper way to use medical devices and PKRT?

In using Alkes and PKRT products, there are several things that must be considered:

• Make sure there is a distribution license issued by the Ministry of Health,
• Pay attention and follow the instructions for use and safety instructions on the packaging,
• Store the product in a safe place, out of reach of children,
• Choose economical products that suit your needs
• Don't easily believe products that are advertised with exaggerated claims.

By paying attention to the above steps before using medical devices and PKRT, it is hoped that the community can choose medical devices and household supplies wisely and intelligently.