Tensions escalate between doctors and the State Health Services Organization in Cyprus

Tensions are rising between public doctors, represented by the PASYKI union, and the State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) in Cyprus over multiple unresolved issues. Key disputes include the payment of performance-based financial incentives, negotiations for collective labor agreements across six unions, and a recent agreement between OKYPY and a private medical school regarding the placement of academic doctors in public hospitals. PASYKI President Sotiris Koumas stated that doctors' patience is exhausted and future stability depends on OKYPY's responses. Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Neofytos Charalambidis, announced he will meet with stakeholders to address the deadlock regarding collective bargaining and salary scales. The minister also condemned recent operational disruptions at Paphos General Hospital, promising to ensure consistent access to quality healthcare. While acknowledging the overall functionality of the General Health System, the minister emphasized the need for ongoing reforms to reduce bureaucracy and prevent abuse.