Cyprus GHS updates oncology protocols to reduce patient wait times

The General Health System (GHS) of Cyprus has successfully concluded a major review of oncology protocols to streamline access to essential cancer treatments. By evaluating 90 treatment combinations across 17 updated protocols, health authorities have successfully moved most of these treatments directly onto the GHS list. This shift eliminates the previously mandatory and cumbersome individual named-patient request process, which had been a significant source of administrative delay for both patients and medical professionals.

Evidence of the policy's efficacy is reflected in recent statistics from the Cyprus Oncology Society, which reported a 23.4% decline in named-patient requests during the second quarter of 2025 compared to the first. Furthermore, patients and physicians are now experiencing shortened waiting periods and faster notification of request outcomes. While evaluation is complete for all 90 items, a small subset of treatments—including therapies for colorectal, non-small cell lung, and urothelial cancers—remains pending final integration while financial negotiations are concluded. Authorities continue to monitor the implementation of these protocols to ensure further improvements in healthcare delivery.