Osak calls for stronger safeguards across Cyprus health system
Osak urged effective licensing, supervision and preventive action to ensure evidence-based, safe healthcare for patients in Cyprus.
Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus patients’ federation (Osak) called for safety to remain a constant priority at every stage of care across the health system, marking World Patient Safety Day on Thursday.
Licensing and supervision
Osak said recent developments highlighted the need for effective licensing and supervision of premises providing health services, oversight of the conditions in which medical procedures are performed, and treatments based on scientific evidence and prescribed safety and quality standards.
The federation welcomed the health ministry’s Cyprus-wide mapping of facilities offering health services and medical procedures. It also welcomed plans by the Cyprus medical association to carry out inspections and address practices lacking a scientific basis or posing risks to patient safety.
“These actions are important for mapping the current situation, identifying potential gaps and, where necessary, taking measures to ensure that health services are provided within a clear and safe framework,” Osak said.
Patient information
Osak said patients must be able to trust that proposed treatments are evidence-based and delivered by qualified professionals.
It urged patients to exercise particular caution when considering treatments that promise significant health benefits without sufficient scientific evidence. The federation advised patients to consult appropriately trained health professionals, request full information on a treatment’s necessity, expected benefits and possible risks, and seek guidance from competent authorities or scientific bodies when in doubt.
Responsibility of authorities
The federation said responsibility for safety could not be transferred to patients.
“Patients cannot be expected to check operating licences, professional qualifications or the scientific validity of a treatment,” it said, adding that ensuring such requirements are met is the responsibility of the competent authorities.
Referring to recent developments, Osak called for preventive mechanisms that protect patients through the early identification of risks and immediate intervention when shortcomings or practices that could endanger health are identified.
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