Healthcare Reforms Take Center Stage in Ministerial Meeting
In a pivotal gathering that could shape the future of Cyprus’s healthcare system, Health Minister Michael Damianos convened with representatives from the Pancyprian Medical Association, including General Secretary Sotiroula Charalambous. The assembly brought to light several pressing issues within the sector, with the national health scheme, Gesy, taking precedence in their dialogue.
Post-meeting reports indicate that the parties involved are seeking a fortified legislative framework for Gesy. This enhancement is aimed at establishing stringent quality criteria for healthcare providers, ensuring that services rendered meet the highest standards. The prevention of potential abuses within the system was also a topic of earnest discussion.
Among the concerns presented by the medical delegation was the provision of non-prescription medication to low-income pensioners—a matter they urged to be addressed without delay. The association’s commitment to this demographic underscores a broader dedication to equitable healthcare access across all socioeconomic strata.
The role and functionality of public hospitals were scrutinized, with the delegation advocating for these institutions to become integral components of Gesy’s integrated service offerings. This approach is anticipated to streamline patient care and bolster the overall efficacy of the national health scheme.
The meeting also shed light on the necessity for a comprehensive development of healthcare services, which includes prompt and appropriate staffing. The importance of fair compensation and regulated working hours for employees at the Cyprus Oncology Centre was emphasized, with calls for these measures to be formalized through a collective labour agreement.
As Cyprus continues to navigate the complexities of healthcare reform, meetings such as this serve as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government officials and medical professionals. Their shared goal: to sculpt a robust and responsive healthcare system that caters to the needs of every Cypriot citizen.
