Counseling Psychologists to Join Cyprus' Gesy Healthcare System

A bill to integrate counseling psychologists into the General Healthcare System (Gesy) is expected to be submitted to the Plenary of the Parliament. The announcement was made by DISY MP, Charalambos Pazaros, and DIKO MP, Alecos Tryfonidis, following a meeting of the Parliamentary Health Committee.

The bill aims to amend Gesy legislation to include counseling psychologists in the category of "other health professionals." The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) is reportedly willing to submit a proposal to include counseling psychology as a separate professional group in Gesy.

Initially, counseling psychologists will provide services for specific health conditions through a limited service package, which will be gradually expanded. According to Mr. Pazaros, counseling psychology can complement clinical psychology, relieving the healthcare system and reducing waiting times for patients.

Mr. Tryfonidis emphasized the "great need" to integrate counseling psychologists into Gesy, noting that society demands this service. The HIO has already held consultations with psychologists' organizations.

The goal is for citizens to be able to consult counseling psychologists within Gesy without additional charges.

Source: CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY