Doctors return to Tatlısu after 12 years

In the village of Tatlısu (İskele district, Northern Cyprus), the Tatlısu Medical Center officially began operations, restoring residents’ access to medical care after a 12-year hiatus. The ceremonial opening took place with the participation of TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, Health Minister Hakan Dinçyürek, Tatlısu Mayor Hayri Orçan, and representatives of the Ministry of Health.

According to official information, the center will operate on a permanent basis:

• 5 days a week — general practitioner consultations
• 1 day a week — consultations with:
  
  • gynecologist
  • therapist
  • dentist

Additionally, patients will be able to receive prescribed medications directly at the medical center, without the need to travel to other towns.

Tatlısu Mayor Hayri Orçan reminded that in 2014 an emergency care point was opened in the village, but no physician services had been available for more than 12 years.

In the summer, Tatlısu’s population exceeds 8,000, and the absence of doctors created serious difficulties — especially for elderly residents and families with children.

According to Orçan, the turning point was a meeting with the Health Minister at the end of 2024, after which the issue was resolved promptly.

Health Minister Hakan Dinçyürek emphasized that in recent years in the TRNC:

• dozens of medical points and centers have been renovated and opened
• 4 large state hospitals are being constructed simultaneously
• active investments are being made in equipment, staff, and infrastructure

It was also announced that starting February, public medical institutions will operate full-time — healthcare services will be provided throughout the official work shift without reductions.

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel called the opening of the center an example of successful cooperation between local and central authorities, emphasizing that healthcare remains a government priority.

The opening of Tatlısu Health Center:

• restores basic medical care locally
• reduces the burden on İskele and Famagusta hospitals
• improves access to care for residents across the eastern region

The medical center will serve not only Tatlısu but also nearby villages.