Patients in Cyprus are now paying much more for important medicines. This has caused many people to complain. The national health system, Gesy, made some changes recently. Because of this, a group called Osak is asking for talks. Osak wants to speak with the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) and drug companies. They say the new costs are a big problem for people. This is especially hard for older people.
The main reason for the problem is how medicine categories were changed. This happened after patents for original drugs ended. Osak believes this means patients must pay more for medicines they always used. A spokesperson said these changes have "serious repercussions on thousands of patients." The cost of essential medicines has gone up directly.
Osak thinks the new system might make doctors choose cheaper treatments. This is not always the best choice for health. Sometimes, different medicines for the same illness have different costs. Even if doctors can use them instead of each other, patients pay more. Osak said doctors should choose medicine based on health, not cost.
This is very difficult for pensioners and people with little money. They have higher monthly costs for their medicines. These extra costs are a big change for their budgets. They might not be able to buy their medicines. Osak believes patients should not pay for patent changes or market changes.
Patients and doctors have complained. Doctors might not be able to choose the best medicine. Osak has started talking with the HIO. They want to find a solution for patients. The situation shows that Gesy needs to be clearer about drug prices. Healthcare must remain easy to get for everyone.