The number of patient complaints regarding medical negligence showed a notable rise in October compared to previous months, raising concerns about healthcare standards.
One case highlights a patient’s claim that, despite notifying medical staff about a specific allergy, the substance was administered during surgery, posing a life-threatening risk.
In October, the Cyprus Patient Association Federation (OSAK) received a total of 53 complaints.
The majority of these grievances were related to drugs and treatments that have not yet been included in the General Health System (GESY), contributing to increased expenses for obtaining various medications and shortages.
Other complaints addressed the behavior of doctors during medical consultations and the waiting time for appointments with GESY specialist doctors.
Citizens reported to OSAK about the incomplete functioning of afternoon outpatient clinics and other departments in State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) hospitals.
Once again, citizens lodged complaints about the registering of their telephone communication with their personal doctor as a regular visit.
Regarding complaints about medical negligence, OSAK’s online statement highlighted that in such cases, they cannot intervene directly, and citizens are referred to the police.
The statement noted, “Unfortunately, these cases present difficulties in terms of evidence and justice, although in some instances, the courts have awarded substantial compensation against doctors.”
