Dialogos

MP Expresses Concerns Over Public Hospital Finances and Management

Published February 26, 2026, 17:02
MP Expresses Concerns Over Public Hospital Finances and Management

MP Marina Nikolaou expressed serious concerns about the state of public hospitals and the management of OKYPY, following a session of the House Health Committee. Despite the presentation of a balanced budget, the reduction in the Organization's actual revenues, understaffing, and shrinking of critical services, such as mental health, create pressures that particularly affect vulnerable groups. The MP emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategic plan and condemned the practice of covering permanent needs through the purchase of services, stressing that AKEL's vote on the budget will only be given with full information on OKYPY's plan. She also referred to problems with the condition of the buildings of Athalasas Hospital, the shrinking of the “THEMEA” structure, and the lack of a comprehensive plan for the creation of integrated oncology centers and new transplant units. Marina Nikolaou stressed that public hospitals should be the backbone of the General Health System and that any deterioration and understaffing directly affects public health. The shrinking of mental health services exacerbates an already stressful situation for vulnerable groups. AKEL will vote on the budget, recognizing the importance of public hospitals, but only if it receives full information on OKYPY's strategic plan.