Health Insurance Organization updates patient transfer protocols after patient care incident

The Health Insurance Organization (HIO) is updating the regulatory framework governing patient transfers between contracted hospitals in Cyprus. This decision follows a public complaint by former Health Minister and Member of Parliament, George Pamboridis, regarding a patient who faced difficulties receiving care for postoperative complications at both public and private emergency departments.

The HIO confirmed that it intervened in this specific case to ensure the patient received the necessary treatment, emphasizing that patient hardship is unacceptable. While the organization maintains that it consistently monitors healthcare providers, it is now drafting clearer instructions for hospitals regarding cases where they cannot manage a specific condition or handle a patient transfer. The HIO noted that out of approximately 27,000 monthly hospitalizations within the GHS (General Healthcare System), patient transfers account for roughly 1.4% of all cases.

The updated framework aims to improve the coordination and continuity of care for patients across the health system. The organization is currently in the process of finalizing these directives, which will serve as a definitive guide for contracted hospitals to prevent similar access issues in the future.