The Cyprus ADHD Support Association is urging authorities to include private occupational therapy in the general health system (Gesy), highlighting its importance for children with ADHD.
- The Cyprus ADHD Support Association is urging authorities to include private occupational therapy in the general health system (Gesy), highlighting its importance for children with ADHD.
- In rural areas, the situation is even more challenging, as there may be no available occupational therapy services, leading to significant disparities in access for children who need them.
The association emphasises that occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping children manage sensory stimuli, develop essential executive functions, and enhance daily living skills. This support is vital for their integration into school and overall development.
Currently, families are facing a substantial financial burden, spending between €250 to €400 monthly for just two to three therapy sessions each week. This cost can be overwhelming for many households, particularly for those with lower incomes.
In rural areas, the situation is even more challenging, as there may be no available occupational therapy services, leading to significant disparities in access for children who need them.
Discussions between the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) and the Cyprus Association of Occupational Therapists have yet to yield a resolution. Prior to the implementation of the current health system, the health ministry provided a subsidy of €20 per visit for occupational therapy, which significantly eased the financial strain on families.
The association is calling on the HIO, the health ministry, and the House health committee to reach an immediate agreement to integrate these essential services. They are advocating for the reinstatement of the previous subsidy until a more permanent solution is established, insisting that equal access to rehabilitation services is a fundamental right for all children.
