Lawmakers in Cyprus have agreed on the Health Insurance Organisation's budget for 2026. This budget is worth €2.13 billion. It is very important for the country's public healthcare system, called Gesy. However, parliament members are worried. They are concerned about real improvements in service quality and access for people. There is a difference between the high spending and the patient's experience. This is true even though the organisation has a lot of money.
The approved budget gives about €2 billion for Gesy. This shows its important role in the country's money plans. At the start of the year, the HIO had €652 million saved. This money might seem like a lot. However, some members of the House of Representatives are worried. They think this money will only last for a few months of work. This shows a growing fear that more money does not mean better healthcare for people.
During the discussions, lawmakers spoke about problems in public healthcare. They mentioned long waits for patients. They also said there are not enough plans for preventing illness. Some medical services also cost too much. These issues show that the system is not working well. It is not using its money to meet people's health needs.
A big argument was about how the HIO shares financial information. MP Charalambos Theopemptou said the HIO does not share data. This data is about where money goes and who gets paid. This is different from rules in the EU for public organisations. This lack of openness about money raises questions. It makes people wonder if there is good control over the system.
Other politicians agreed with this. They said that more money for the HIO must mean better services for people. They think the organisation might be saving money instead of making services better. Gesy has many challenges. These include slow operations and using money well for patients. The budget is approved, so Gesy will continue. However, the strong debate shows a need for changes. The focus must be on working better and being open. This will help money lead to real health improvements.