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OSAK Criticizes Years of Inaction Regarding Emergency Medical Services

Published February 12, 2026, 09:24
OSAK Criticizes Years of Inaction Regarding Emergency Medical Services

The Federation of Associations of Patients in Cyprus (OSAK) blames the state for “years of inaction” regarding pre-hospital and emergency care, following the failed air ambulance transfer of a 38-year-old patient to Greece for a lung transplant. OSAK emphasizes that Cyprus, as an island nation, must have adequate mechanisms to deal with emergencies without relying on other countries. The Federation states that it has repeatedly warned about the need to create an independent pre-hospital care agency with sufficient staffing and equipment, as well as the ability for immediate air ambulance transfer. It calls for an investigation into the incident and the implementation of measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. A bill to establish a National Ambulance Service is being discussed in Parliament.