Cyprus considers acquiring state-owned aircraft for urgent patient transfers abroad
Cyprus is exploring the purchase of a state-owned aircraft to swiftly transport critically ill patients abroad for urgent medical treatment. This initiative follows concerns over lengthy transfer times via foreign air ambulance services, which can surpass medically safe time limits. President Nikos Christodoulides and the Health Minister have engaged with the Ambulance Service to advance studies for the acquisition, with potential funding from the EU's 2028-2035 budget.
Data from the Health Insurance Organisation reveals about 100 patient transfers in the first ten months of its overseas referral scheme, with nearly half classified as urgent or life-threatening. Current arrangements with foreign air ambulance companies cause preparation and transit delays of up to 15 hours, sometimes compromising patient outcomes. The service costs around €2.6 million annually.
Patient advocacy groups underscore the importance of a national solution, citing the island's reliance on remote providers and the critical nature of timely medical transfers. The Cyprus Federation of Patients Associations anticipates progress on this matter during 2027, aiming to enhance emergency response capabilities and reduce the anguish faced by patients and families.
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