Caring Through Uncertainty: Indonesian Healthcare Professionals' Responses to Child Maltreatment

Child maltreatment is a serious global issue, threatening the health and well-being of future generations. In Indonesia, amid the high number of reports, the challenges lie in the preparedness of the healthcare professionals in responding to child maltreatment cases. This study explores the experiences of Indonesian healthcare professionals in responding to child maltreatment. Twenty-one healthcare professionals from hospitals and community health centers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, were interviewed, including physicians (general practitioners, a psychiatrist, and a forensic doctor), psychologists, nurses, and midwives. A descriptive qualitative design was employed, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five themes represent the experience of Indonesian healthcare professionals in responding to child maltreatment: (1) child-centered care, (2) family and community engagement, (3) response dynamics, (4) response priorities, and (5) response uncertainty. The findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen standardized protocols and inter-agency collaboration in child protection efforts. Further research should examine the systemic and cultural factors influencing healthcare professionals' responses.