Concerns over insulin pump coverage for children under Cyprus GHeSY

Patients and families in Cyprus are raising concerns regarding the Health Insurance Organization's (HIO/OAy) coverage policies for type 1 diabetes management, specifically concerning access to modern insulin pumps. The debate, which intensified in September 2026, highlights a tension between the need for personalized care for children and the administrative constraints of the national healthcare system (GHeSY).

Key issues involve the evaluation process of medical equipment, overseen by Athos Tsinontidis and Gnoshia Achniotou from the HIO's medical devices department. Critics argue that the current procurement framework limits access to advanced hybrid closed-loop systems, which are vital for preventing complications and improving quality of life. Meanwhile, the HIO acknowledges the challenges of operating within a small market while balancing strict public procurement procedures and specialized clinical requirements.

Moving forward, the HIO maintains that its objective is to ensure that the latest medical technologies are eventually made available to all eligible beneficiaries. The organization continues to evaluate the current system in response to ongoing feedback from patients and medical professionals, aiming to reconcile the need for advanced therapeutic tools with organizational regulations.