modernisation — As calls for modernisation echo through the House health committee, the sustainability of the general health system (Gesy) faces scrutiny from various political factions. The discussions, held on Thursday, centred around the annual budget of the state health services organisation, Okypy, which is confronting significant financial challenges.
- As discussions continue, the health committee remains focused on ensuring that the public system not only survives but thrives, safeguarding the essential services that many citizens depend on.
Modernisation: Concerns Over Sustainability
Disy MP Charalambos Pazaros highlighted the importance of safeguarding the future of Gesy, emphasising the necessity of enhancing the administrative and financial autonomy of public hospitals. Pazaros urged the timely completion of the action plan for autonomy to improve patient care and eliminate redundant costs borne by the public.
Investment in Health
With Okypy’s budget set at €780 million, Pazaros asserted that every investment in health represents a commitment to the dignity of citizens. However, concerns linger over the ability of public hospitals to maintain quality services amidst rising costs and financial pressures.
Declining Revenues and Staffing Challenges
Akel MP Marina Nikolaou raised alarms about declining real revenues, questioning the sustainability of a system she insists must rely on robust public hospitals. She pointed to understaffing and reduced mental health services as clear indicators of a system under strain.
Delays in Key Services
Nikolaou expressed frustration over delays in establishing oncology centres and transplant units, attributing these issues to inadequate planning. She made it clear that Akel would only support the budget if provided with comprehensive information regarding Okypy’s strategic planning, which she believes is essential for ensuring autonomy.
Population Growth and Hospital Strain
Echoing concerns about public health, Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides acknowledged the progress made but lamented that a burgeoning population has left hospitals struggling to meet demand. He cited the management challenges faced by Larnaca and Paphos general hospitals as examples of the growing pressure on the health system.
Okypy’s Challenges and Responses
Amidst the criticisms, Okypy’s administration defended its position, claiming that structural costs rather than inefficiency hinder their path to autonomy. Okypy director-general Kypros Stavrides informed the committee that they are following an action plan developed in collaboration with the finance ministry.
Financial director Roberto Karachannas revealed that payroll expenses account for a staggering 80% of Okypy’s budget. He pointed out that from 2019 to 2026, the wage bill is projected to increase by €163 million, despite only a modest rise in staff numbers.
Financial Disparities and Future Goals
Karachannas also highlighted what he termed “unequal treatment” within the health insurance organisation (HIO), noting that Okypy fully covers the cost of sick leave, which exceeds €40 million, unlike private providers. He emphasised the need to rectify these financial imbalances to achieve autonomy by the end of 2026.
As discussions continue, the health committee remains focused on ensuring that the public system not only survives but thrives, safeguarding the essential services that many citizens depend on.
