The Federation of Patient Associations of Cyprus (CyFPA/OSAK) has proposed restructuring the island’s ambulance service, advocating for its integration into a broader crisis management framework.
In a report submitted to the Health Minister in March, OSAK outlined three options for the ambulance service, ranking a new Deputy Ministry or Crisis Management Service as its top choice. This model would bring together the Fire Service, Ambulance Service, and Civil Defence under a single command.
The federation rejected placing the ambulance service under the Health Ministry, arguing it would hinder wider healthcare reforms. OSAK also outlined a second option for an independent ambulance authority.
The proposals come amid ongoing debate over the service’s future. In December, OSAK criticised plans to keep the ambulance service within the State Health Services Organisation (SHSO/OKYPY), calling it a “half-measure”. A previous bill to establish an independent ambulance authority was rejected in 2020.
OSAK’s preferred models would centralise emergency response and improve efficiency, according to the federation.
