Cyprus GHS: Push for Doctor Transparency and Oversight

Significant efforts have been underway for the past six years to enhance the transparency and oversight of medical practices by doctors within the General Healthcare System (GHS) in Cyprus. The aim is to reduce misdiagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and unethical conduct.

Cardiologist Dr. Lakis Anastasiadis stated that errors and lawsuits are observed daily, emphasizing the need for oversight of medical practices. He pointed out that Cyprus has the highest rate of antibiotic prescriptions in Europe, indicating a lack of control over doctors.

From the authorities' perspective, the General Director of the HIO, Ifigeneia Kamitsi, mentioned that Cyprus has the lowest rate of unmet medical needs in the EU. She acknowledged abuses by providers as a continuous challenge and emphasized the implementation of multi-level controls.

The president of OSEAK, Charalambos Papadopoulos, noted that the HIO has initiated audits and enforcement measures, while emphasizing the need for improvement in the way some doctors operate. He also stressed the importance of establishing protocols for medical procedures.

The President of the Ethics Committee of the Pancyprian Medical Association, Dr. Michalis Anastasiadis, assured that all complaints are investigated and emphasized zero tolerance for unethical behavior.