ghs satisfaction — ghs satisfaction — Patient satisfaction with Cyprus’s national health system, the General Healthcare System (GHS), has seen a decline, dropping to 86 per cent from 92 per cent in 2023, according to a recent survey. This survey was presented at the 8th Cyprus Healthcare Conference and highlights emerging concerns among residents about waiting lists and knowledge gaps.
Ghs satisfaction: Shifts in Satisfaction Levels
While the majority of respondents express satisfaction with the GHS, the survey indicates a notable decrease in overall confidence compared to earlier assessments. The findings reveal that despite a significant portion of the population appreciating the healthcare services, the declining satisfaction rate raises questions about the sustainability of public trust in the system.
Quality of Life Benefits
Despite these concerns, the survey reveals that 88 per cent of participants believe their quality of life has improved due to the GHS, although this figure has dropped from 93 per cent in the previous two years. This perceived enhancement in well-being is largely attributed to the system’s financial benefits.
Financial Relief from Healthcare Costs
One of the most noteworthy advantages cited by citizens is the reduction in healthcare costs. Eight in ten respondents reported that the GHS has effectively eliminated their medical expenses. Furthermore, 84 per cent indicated that their household budgets have benefited from the introduction of the system. This financial relief is a significant positive aspect of the GHS, especially as private health insurance coverage has decreased from 42 per cent to 31 per cent since the system’s implementation.
Challenges with Waiting Lists
Despite the positive feedback regarding financial aspects, waiting lists for specialist appointments remain a pressing issue, impacting 57 per cent of those surveyed. While 74 per cent acknowledged improvements in waiting times over the last year, the persistence of long waits indicates a critical area that still needs attention.
Concerns Over Coverage and Referral Processes
Additional worries include the non-coverage of certain medical tests, which affects half of the respondents, and referral procedures from personal doctors, which concern 49 per cent. These issues contribute to the overall dissatisfaction and highlight gaps in the system that require addressing.
Knowledge Gaps Among Patients
The survey also brought to light significant knowledge gaps regarding patient rights and obligations within the healthcare system. Participants scored an average of 6.2 out of 10 when queried about accessing services and information. However, understanding patient rights and covered services scored just 5.7, while knowledge of complaint procedures was particularly lacking at only 4.1 out of 10. This indicates a crucial need for enhanced patient education initiatives.
Positive Outlook on International Investment
Looking ahead, the survey indicates that 75 per cent of respondents believe foreign investment in Cyprus’s private hospitals will bolster medical infrastructure and technology. Half of the participants identified technology modernisation and staff training as the most significant opportunities arising from such investments, suggesting a community readiness for improvements in healthcare delivery.
Usage of Healthcare Services Over Time
The survey tracked healthcare utilisation over the past two years, revealing that 91 per cent of residents visited personal doctors, 83 per cent consulted specialists, and 78 per cent received medications through the GHS. These figures illustrate the system’s extensive reach within the community, despite the challenges that have emerged.
