Christodoulides calls for progress on patient-focused health reforms

Nicosia, Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides said on Thursday that the government’s health priorities were aligned with those of the patients’ association federation Osak, calling for progress on legislation and reforms affecting patients.

Speaking at a meeting with Osak’s executive committee at the presidential palace, he said the government viewed health and education as long-term investments.

Cooperation with Osak

Christodoulides described Osak as “perhaps the most successful non-governmental organisation in our country” in promoting patients’ demands.

He said the government had regarded the federation as a partner from the outset and noted that several proposals submitted by Osak before his election had since been implemented.

Pending legislation

The president referred to legislation before House committees and said the government and Osak should work together to press for progress on measures proposed by the federation.

He cited the creation of the patient ombudsman as an example of a proposal repeatedly requested by Osak that had been adopted by the government.

Christodoulides said the meeting would focus on substantive issues and assess progress in reforms already under way.

Health policy measures

Osak has previously called for improvements to the general health service, known as Gesy, public hospital services and patient rights.

The federation represents 42 organisations and around 90,000 patients, and regularly participates in advisory bodies and consultations on health policy.

Government measures under pursuit include establishing a national cancer institute, reforming palliative care, developing rehabilitation clinics and setting up a national ambulance agency.