The Cyprus patients’ federation (Osak) has urged the health ministry to scrap plans for separate laws regulating public and private hospitals. Instead, they are calling for a unified legal framework that treats all healthcare facilities equally.

This demand follows rising frustrations among patients, healthcare professionals and private hospitals. Critics argue that the proposed changes risk deepening divisions in the sector.

‘One law for all’

Osak president Charalambos Papadopoulos made their position clear in an interview with the Sunday Mail. 

“We have always argued for a single law to govern all hospitals under the same rules and standards. Fragmented legislation is a step back, especially in the era of the general healthcare system (Gesy),” he said.

The Gesy, introduced in 2019, was designed to offer universal health coverage. While initially praised, the lack of a unified regulatory framework has led to inefficiencies and inconsistencies between public and private facilities.

The health ministry’s proposed legislation introduces strict new requirements for hospitals, including updated operational and building standards. These changes must be implemented within 18 months of the law’s approval.

President of the Cyprus Association of Private Hospitals (Pasynm), Marios Karaiskakis, warned of the potential impact. 

“These demands are unrealistic. Many private hospitals will not be able to meet the criteria and could shut down,” he said.

Criticism has also been levelled at provisions allowing ministerial exemptions. Opponents argue this could lead to unfair advantages for certain hospitals. 

“It opens the door to favouritism. Some hospitals may be allowed to operate without meeting the rules, while others face closure,” Karaiskakis added.

Osak has insisted the issue goes beyond the specifics of the proposed bills. 

“The problem is the principle of having two separate laws. A unified framework is the only way to ensure fairness and consistency,” said Papadopoulos.

He also underlined the federation’s commitment to modernisation. 

“We support updates to hospital regulations, but it must be done under a single framework that guarantees equality. Exceptions can be made, but the system must be fair.”

Healthcare at a crossroads

The health ministry’s plans have reignited debate about healthcare regulation in Cyprus. Private hospitals fear closure, while patients worry about unequal treatment.

Osak has called for meaningful dialogue to create a unified law that aligns with Gesy principles. With public consultations ongoing, the ministry faces mounting pressure to reconsider its approach.

The final decision will likely shape Cyprus’ healthcare landscape for years to come.