Moving to Indonesia or traveling for an extended period? On this occasion we will discuss Indonesian medical phrases for expatriates and travelers. Learning basic Indonesian—especially healthcare-related phrases—can make a big difference in emergencies and daily medical interactions. While many doctors in urban areas speak some English, it’s still helpful to know the basics.
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Why Learn Basic Medical Phrases in Indonesian?
Medical situations can be stressful—more so when there’s a language barrier. In public hospitals or rural clinics, English-speaking staff may be limited. By learning essential phrases, you can:
- Communicate your symptoms clearly
- Ask questions about medications
- Navigate clinics and pharmacies with confidence
- Respond appropriately in emergencies
General Medical Terms You Should Know
Basic Words
- Rumah Sakit – Hospital
- Puskesmas – Community Health Clinic
- Dokter – Doctor
- Perawat – Nurse
- Apotek – Pharmacy
- Resep – Prescription
- Asuransi Kesehatan – Health Insurance
Body and Symptoms Vocabulary
- Demam – Fever
- Sakit kepala – Headache
- Mual – Nausea
- Diare – Diarrhea
- Pusing – Dizziness
- Sesak napas – Shortness of breath
- Luka – Wound
- Nyeri dada – Chest pain
- Sakit perut – Stomachache
For a more complete list of medical terms and phrases, visit this trusted language resource:
Explore Bahasa – Common Medical Terms in Indonesian.
Useful Phrases at the Doctor or Pharmacy
At the Clinic or Hospital
- “Saya butuh dokter.” – I need a doctor.
- “Saya merasa sakit.” – I feel unwell.
- “Saya punya janji dengan dokter.” – I have an appointment with the doctor.
- “Di mana ruang gawat darurat?” – Where is the emergency room?
- “Apakah Anda bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?” – Can you speak English?
At the Pharmacy
- “Obat ini untuk apa?” – What is this medicine for?
- “Apakah obat ini harus dengan resep?” – Is this medicine prescription-only?
- “Saya alergi terhadap…” – I’m allergic to…
- “Bagaimana cara minum obat ini?” – How do I take this medicine?
- “Berapa kali sehari saya harus minum obat ini?” – How many times a day should I take this?
Emergency Situations – What to Say
- “Tolong! Ada kecelakaan.” – Help! There’s an accident.
- “Tolong panggil ambulans.” – Please call an ambulance.
- “Saya mengalami sakit jantung.” – I have chest pain.
- “Saya tidak bisa bernapas.” – I can’t breathe.
- “Ada orang pingsan di sini.” – Someone has fainted here.
Learn Through Video: Hospital Vocabulary in Indonesian
Watch this short video to hear how common medical terms are pronounced and used in Indonesian hospitals and clinics. It’s a helpful resource for improving your listening and speaking skills.
Printable Phrase Sheet for Quick Access
For a more complete list of medical terms and phrases, visit this trusted language resource:
Explore Bahasa – Common Medical Terms in Indonesian.
Bonus Tips: Using Translation Apps Wisely
- Download offline translation packs
- Use the camera translation feature for medicine labels
- Confirm critical phrases with a local friend or language tutor
Final Thoughts
Health is a priority no matter where you are. As an expat or international visitor in Indonesia, understanding key healthcare phrases can help you stay calm and in control during medical situations. It’s a small effort with potentially life-saving benefits.
Start by memorizing 10–15 of the phrases above—and keep a printed list handy. Your future self will thank you.
FAQ: Indonesian medical phrases for expats and travelers
Do I need to speak Indonesian to see a doctor?
Not necessarily, but knowing basic medical phrases can help a lot, especially in public hospitals or rural areas.
Can I use Google Translate during a medical visit in Indonesia?
Yes, but it’s better to prepare key phrases in advance. Some translations may not be accurate for medical terms.
This article is part of our Healthcare for Expats Series. Read the full guide here:
Indonesia’s Healthcare System.