Crisis as a serendipity for change in Cyprus' healthcare services

Summary

As Cyprus signed a financial agreement with a team of international lenders, several reform measures were outlined as pre-requisites for disbursement of financial instalments. The health sector was massively reformed in order to enhance efficiency and reduce waste. The magnitude of reforms included introduction of guidelines and clinical algorithms, co-payments, and revision of criteria for public beneficiary status. In order to safeguard equity in access, solidarity in coverage and sustainability of its healthcare sector, reforms must continue unabated and, more importantly, the introduction of a universal health system should be the ultimate goal.

Keywords::

• Cyprus
• Financial Crisis
• Reforms
• Efficiency
• Troika

Transparency

Declaration of interest

PP has disclosed that he has no significant relationships with, or financial interests in, any commercial companies related to this study or article. JME peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Notes

*This team consists of the International Monetary Fund, the European Commission, and the European Central Bank (commonly known as Troika).