Fast-track clinics in A&E departments in Nicosia and Paphos general hospitals will increase the level of care on offer, Health Minister Michalis Damianos said on Tuesday.

Speaking at Paphos hospital, he said public health remains a top priority for the government.

The clinics, he said, are part of a broader effort to modernise the country’s healthcare system and address the growing demands on emergency services.

Health ministry permanent secretary Kypros Stavrinides said the initiative promises “less waiting, more care and a better quality of life.”

The fast-track clinic project was first piloted at Nicosia general hospital from March 31 without public announcements.

Since then, the clinic has served 479 patients, with promising results, Stavrinides said.

Based on this success, the initiative will now be extended to Paphos.

The fast-track clinic in Paphos is set to open on Monday, June 2.

A three-month trial period will assess the impact of the new approach on handling emergency cases. The aim is to enhance the service and strengthen the hospital’s capacity to manage urgent cases.

The clinic will be located within the existing A&E department in a specially designed area, ensuring patient safety and easy access to necessary medical services.

Operating daily from 2.30 to 9.30pm, the clinic will be staffed by a doctor and a nurse. Non-urgent cases will be redirected to the fast-track clinic for faster treatment.

Damianos assured that patient triage and registration procedures will remain consistent to maintain smooth operations and avoid confusion.

Stavrinides said the fast-track clinics provide immediate solutions for hundreds of citizens who need prompt but non-critical care.

“We are taking another step forward towards a more immediate, humane and effective healthcare system,” he said.

Despite ongoing developmental works at Paphos hospital, the project is moving forward smoothly, thanks to the dedication of the hospital’s staff, Stavrinides said.