Patient complaints have Osak urging protection of Gesy

Complaints over inadequate care, services and the inappropriate behaviour of health care professionals have prompted the federation of patients’ associations (Osak) to express their concern over the protection of the general health system (Gesy) on Tuesday.

“It is not possible that, in a country with the lowest rates of unmet health needs and a system that can ensure universal access to health services, protection and control mechanisms do not function effectively,” Osak said.

The federation said it had received a total of 20 complaints in January, urging that health care providers prioritise their patients’ needs and recognise their vulnerable position.

Osak said that in many cases, patients may file a complaint but did not wish to initiate a formal investigation, which was required to proceed with an examination and attribute responsibility where necessary.  

“The responsibility is collective. At the same time, however, uncontrolled attacks against hospitals and professionals, as well as drawing conclusions before completing investigations, or even before officially filing complaints, do not constitute good information practices,” it said.

Osak called on the HIO to implement necessary measures including new policies and relevant improvements to ensure the protection of both patients and the general health system.

Concluding its statement, the federation appealed to the health ministry to effectively exercise its supervisory role.

On Monday, the daughter of a 92-year-old man who died after eight days in Larnaca general hospital raised serious concerns over his care, calling for government to intervene.

She described “tragic shortcomings, lack of communication and dangerous omissions” during his stay.