Public or Private? | The Healthcare System in Cyprus

Cyprus, an island nation in the Mediterranean, is known for its high standard of living, warm climate, and well-developed healthcare system. With a population of about 1.2 million, Cyprus provides both public and private healthcare options, ensuring comprehensive medical services for residents and expats alike.

For those considering a move to Cyprus, understanding the healthcare system is essential. The country offers a universal healthcare system through GESY (General Healthcare System) while also providing private healthcare services for those seeking faster treatment and specialized care.

Cyprus’ healthcare system operates at three levels:

• Primary care: General practitioners (GPs) and outpatient clinics
• Secondary care: Specialist consultations and diagnostic services
• Tertiary care: Advanced hospital treatments and specialized procedures

The system is primarily funded through taxes and contributions, with private healthcare offering an alternative for premium services.

Structure of the Healthcare System in Cyprus

Public healthcare

Cyprus’ public healthcare system operates under GESY, introduced in 2019, which provides affordable medical services to all residents. Citizens and legal residents must register to benefit from public healthcare services.

Coverage and accessibility

GESY covers a range of essential services:

• General practitioner visits
• Specialist consultations
• Hospitalization
• Emergency services
• Maternity and pediatric care
• Vaccinations
• Dental care (basic services)
• Prescription medications (with co-payments)

While GESY offers affordable healthcare, wait times can be long for non-urgent treatments.‍

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How to Register for Health Insurance in Cyprus

Residents can register with GESY by enrolling online and selecting a general practitioner. Contributions are deducted from salaries or paid voluntarily by self-employed individuals.

Government-run healthcare programs

Cyprus provides subsidized healthcare programs for low-income individuals, pensioners, and public sector employees under GESY. Emergency healthcare is available free of charge for urgent cases.

Private healthcare

Private healthcare is widely used in Cyprus due to shorter wait times and higher service quality. Private hospitals and clinics offer specialized treatments not always available in the public system.

Pharmacy healthcare

Pharmacies (φαρμακεία) are common in Cyprus, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. GESY covers some medications, while others must be paid for out-of-pocket.

Children’s Healthcare in Cyprus

Pediatric care in Cyprus is available through both public and private healthcare providers. Services include:

• Routine check-ups
• Vaccinations
• Pediatric emergency care

Parents often opt for private care to ensure faster access to specialists.

Cypriot Dentists

Public dental care under GESY is limited to basic services, with most dental treatments provided privately.

Mental Healthcare in Cyprus

Mental health services are available through GESY, including therapy and psychiatric consultations. However, private healthcare is often preferred due to shorter wait times.

Other Forms of Healthcare in Cyprus

Alternative medicine, such as homeopathy and acupuncture, is available in Cyprus, though it is generally not covered under GESY.

Emergency healthcare

Emergency medical services are available through public hospitals and private clinics. Public emergency services are free for urgent cases.

What to Do in an Emergency

For medical emergencies in Cyprus, call 112. Public hospitals provide emergency care, but private clinics also offer immediate treatment for a fee.

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‍Access and Coverage for Free Healthcare in Cyprus

Who is covered under public healthcare in Cyprus?

All legal residents, including expats, are eligible for GESY. Low-income individuals receive additional financial support for medical services.

Waiting times and availability of services in Cyprus

Public healthcare wait times can be long for specialist consultations and elective procedures, prompting many to use private healthcare.

Geographic disparities in healthcare access in Cyprus

Healthcare services are well-developed in urban areas like Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, while rural areas may have limited specialist availability.

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Access and Coverage for Private Healthcare in Cyprus

Private insurance options

Many expats and high-income residents choose private health insurance for quicker access to medical services and premium healthcare facilities.

Popular insurance networks and hospitals

Private hospitals in Cyprus, such as the American Medical Center and Apollonion Private Hospital, offer high-quality healthcare services.

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Quality of Healthcare in Cyprus

Standards and regulations in Cyprus

Healthcare in Cyprus is regulated by the Ministry of Health, ensuring high standards for both public and private providers.

Comparison of public vs. private healthcare quality in Cyprus

Public healthcare under GESY provides affordable services, but private healthcare offers faster access and better facilities.

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Out-of-pocket Expenditure
regional comparison

Useful Resources

• GlobalPassport webpage: https://www.globalpassport.ai/destinations/cyprus
• Cyprus Ministry of Health: https://www.moh.gov.cy/
• GESY (General Healthcare System): https://www.gesy.org.cy/
• Emergency Services in Cyprus: Dial 112 for medical emergencies

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