Cyprus Hospitals Paralyzed: Doctors Announce 48-Hour Strike

Doctors at state hospitals in Cyprus have announced a 48-hour strike. Negotiations between the unions and the State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) have failed to reach a compromise. As a result, only life-threatening cases will be treated in hospitals across Cyprus today.

Emergency departments (A&E) will only handle incidents where there is a risk to human life. Surgeries, consultations, outpatient treatments (including chemotherapy), and patient discharges are all postponed. If needed, private sector hospitals will provide additional beds.

The Pediatric Emergency Department (A&E for Children) will operate with security staff in place.

OKYPY has confirmed that steps have been taken to ensure continued treatment for patients in state hospitals, minimizing any risks to their lives.

A&E departments at Nicosia General Hospital and Limassol General Hospital will only treat critical patients in emergency situations. Other patients will be transferred to private hospitals, with ambulance services handling the transportation.

General hospitals in Paphos, Larnaca, and Famagusta, as well as district hospitals in Troodos and Polis Chrysochous, will continue to treat critically ill patients requiring urgent medical care and interventions.

Patients in need of medical examinations, diagnostic tests, or therapeutic interventions will be transported by ambulance to private hospitals in nearby provinces.

The 48-hour strike by state doctors is scheduled to end on November 28 at 07:30.

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides stated that “the state will not succumb to pressure that serves no greater good for society or that stands in the way of significant reforms.”