A doctor at a state hospital accused of trying to skim a patient’s relatives out of money has been sacked, booted out of the state health services organisation (Okypy) and may even face criminal charges, reports said on Monday.

The case came to light about a week ago, with Health Minister Michalis Damianos at the time stating that the doctor had been suspended pending a disciplinary investigation.

But on Monday, Okypy itself released a statement noting that the services of the doctor have been terminated, effective immediately.

Okypy has meantime been alerted by the ministry that the matter has also been referred to the attorney-general’s office “for the investigation of possible criminal offences”.

The patient’s relatives had reported the matter to both health authorities and to the police.

According to Politis, the relatives said that the patient had traveled to Athens for specialised surgery. Coincidentally, the doctor treating him in Cyprus also travelled to Athens at the same time, and he was present at the medical centre that admitted the patient.

The relatives allege the doctor had asked them – on more than one occasion – for money for services rendered to their sick relative.

Politis said their complaint to the police included evidence of text messages between the relatives and the doctor.

In one instance, the physician asked the family for €1,700. When they demanded a receipt, he said he could not oblige as he worked at a state hospital. He then reportedly lowered his ask to €1,200.
The patient in question has passed away.