The Cyprus Patients’ Association (CyFPA) has highlighted concerns about ambulance coverage in remote areas following the death of an elderly woman in a mountainous community near Nicosia.
The woman’s granddaughter filed a complaint with the Patients’ Rights Observatory, detailing a delay in the arrival of an ambulance.
Charalambos Papadopoulos, CyFPA President, emphasised the need for legislative changes to improve the ambulance system. He acknowledged the challenges of placing ambulances in every remote area but stressed the need for a more efficient system.
Papadopoulos cited successful models in other countries where independent authorities manage emergency services.
CyFPA has proposed integrating private ambulances to alleviate the burden on state services currently handling non-urgent transfers. They have also called for legislation to regulate ambulance operations, including the role of private providers.
Independent ambulance authority proposed
According to Phileleftheros, a proposal for a Deputy Ministry of Crises to oversee emergency services, including ambulances, is under consideration by President Christodoulides.
The Ministry of Health has also proposed establishing an independent National Ambulance Authority.
However, the Ministry of Finance, citing cost concerns, reportedly favour either a dedicated department within the Ministry of Health or retaining ambulance services under the existing state health services organisation (SHSO).
This disagreement has stalled legislation for an independent authority for over a year.
CyFPA, along with other stakeholders, supports the independent authority model, arguing for a well-funded and efficiently managed system.
Negotiations between the Ministries of Health and Finance are ongoing.ambulance services. ambulance coverage, remote areas, legislative changes
