Patient satisfaction with Cyprus’s national health system has declined marginally to 86 per cent from 92 per cent in 2023, according to a nationwide survey presented at the 8th Cyprus Healthcare Conference on Thursday.
The survey of residents revealed that whilst the majority remain satisfied with the General Healthcare System (GHS) implemented six years ago, confidence has weakened compared to previous measurements.
Some 88 per cent of respondents reported positive impacts on their quality of life, down from 93 per cent two years earlier.
Cost reduction remains biggest benefit for patients
The most significant benefit for citizens remains reduced healthcare costs, with eight in 10 respondents saying the GHS led to the elimination of their medical expenses. Some 84 per cent reported their household budgets were relieved by the system’s implementation.
Private health insurance coverage has fallen to 31 per cent from 42 per cent before the system’s introduction, reflecting citizens’ increased reliance on the public scheme.
Waiting lists for specialist appointments remain the biggest challenge, affecting 57 per cent of respondents, despite 74 per cent acknowledging improvements in waiting times over the past 12 months.
Other significant concerns include non-coverage of certain medical tests (50 per cent) and referral procedures from personal doctors (49 per cent).
Knowledge gaps emerge in patient understanding of system
The survey highlighted concerning knowledge gaps among citizens regarding their rights and obligations within the healthcare system.
Participants scored an average of 6.2 out of 10 when asked about accessing services and information, whilst knowledge of patient rights and covered services scored just 5.7.
Understanding of complaint procedures scored lowest at 4.1 out of 10, indicating significant room for improvement in patient education programmes.
Regarding multinational investment in Cyprus’s private hospitals, 75 per cent of respondents believe foreign acquisitions will improve medical infrastructure and technology.
Half cited technology modernisation and staff training as the most important opportunities from international investment.
The survey tracked healthcare utilisation over the past two years, with 91 per cent visiting personal doctors, 83 per cent consulting specialists, and 78 per cent receiving medications through the system.
