Plasmapheresis center in Larnaca closes following parliamentary health committee discussion

On October 15, 2026, it was confirmed during a session of the Parliamentary Health Committee that a plasmapheresis center in Larnaca has ceased operations. Notably, the closure was a voluntary decision by the owner rather than a result of direct enforcement by state authorities. The facility had previously been the subject of multiple reports and concerns raised by both the Ministry of Health and the Police.

During the committee hearing, officials revealed that investigations at the site uncovered six plasmapheresis machines operated by two doctors who lacked specialized qualifications. While the medical equipment itself was approved for use, the premises lacked the necessary legal licensing. The Ministry of Health had previously issued a formal request for the center to suspend operations and filed a complaint with the Police, though officials noted that legal gaps and fragmented regulatory oversight hindered immediate intervention.

Representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Cyprus Medical Council, the Cyprus Medical Association, and the Patient Ombudsman highlighted systemic issues regarding the regulation of wellness centers. Marios Charalambides, the Patient Ombudsman, warned that split jurisdictional responsibilities among seven or eight different agencies create gaps in oversight that jeopardize patient safety. Ongoing discussions aim to address these legislative weaknesses to prevent similar unregulated medical practices in the future.