Elderly Patients in Cyprus Face Barriers in Accessing Healthcare Services, Reveals Patients’ Observatory

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Elderly individuals in Cyprus are facing daily challenges to access proper healthcare, as reported by Philenews. These barriers, whether major or minor, are hindering older adults from receiving the specialized care they need. Despite the implementation of the General Health Scheme (Gesy) in the country, deficiencies still persist in areas such as rehabilitation, palliative care, and community nursing services.

The shortcomings in the healthcare system are particularly evident when it comes to supporting chronically or terminally ill patients. Some patients and their families are burdened with high costs as they struggle to meet their specialized needs due to the inadequate provision of benefits and other forms of assistance. These concerns have been brought to light by the Patients’ Observatory of the Federation of the European Union.

Many older adults find themselves seeking assistance from the Observatory, as they encounter difficulties in accessing hospitals and other healthcare facilities where they receive essential services. This is especially true for elderly individuals who live alone and are often unaware of the support services available to them. Consequently, they do not approach relevant government departments or agencies for help, exacerbating their already challenging situations.

Accessibility and acceptability are consistently identified as the two primary factors influencing older adults’ ability to access healthcare, both in Cyprus and globally. These factors play a crucial role in either enabling or impeding elderly individuals from receiving the medical attention they require. Additionally, financial constraints, transportation limitations, and a lack of social and familial support are frequently cited as contributing factors.

In order to address these pressing issues, it is imperative for Cyprus to invest in specialized healthcare structures that cater specifically to the needs of its elderly population. By bolstering rehabilitation, palliative care, and community nursing services, the country can ensure that older adults receive the comprehensive and tailored care they deserve. Furthermore, greater emphasis should be placed on providing financial assistance and support to patients and their families, alleviating the burden of exorbitant costs incurred due to specialized care requirements.

The government must also improve awareness and accessibility of support services among elderly individuals, particularly those who live alone. By disseminating information about available resources and encouraging proactive engagement with relevant departments, Cyprus can bridge the gap between older adults and the assistance they urgently need.

In conclusion, Cyprus is currently grappling with significant challenges in providing adequate healthcare to its elderly population. The lack of specialized structures and persisting shortcomings within the Gesy system hinder the accessibility and quality of care for older adults. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach that includes investment in specialized healthcare services, financial assistance, and heightened awareness of available support. By taking decisive action, Cyprus can ensure that its elderly citizens receive the healthcare they deserve and improve their overall quality of life..