A new agreement will substantially reduce the amount paid by Gesy beneficiaries who receive the anticoagulant medicine Eliquis. The change follows negotiations between the Health Insurance Organisation and the product’s Marketing Authorisation Holder.
From 1 August 2026, the maximum Contribution II payment for the medicine will be set at €8 per package, according to an announcement by the Health Insurance Organisation.
Agreement lowers patient costs
The HIO said Eliquis is an oral anticoagulant belonging to the category of newer anticoagulants, known as NOACs.
These medicines have played an important role in preventing and treating thrombosis and strokes and are widely used in Cyprus by tens of thousands of patients, with positive therapeutic results.
The agreement addresses an issue that arose in February 2026 following the repricing of pharmaceutical products by the Health Ministry’s Pharmaceutical Services.
Previous contribution exceeded €22
Following the repricing, the Contribution II payment for Eliquis increased significantly.
Patients were required to pay €22.53 per package for the 2.5 mg dosage and €22.54 for the 5 mg dosage.
The HIO said it recognised the impact of the increase on patients, particularly financially vulnerable groups, as well as the importance of ensuring uninterrupted and equal access to necessary treatment.
It subsequently entered into negotiations with both the pharmaceutical company and the product’s Marketing Authorisation Holder to secure a sustainable solution.
Patients and Health Ministry kept informed
The organisation said it kept organised patient groups and the Health Ministry informed throughout the consultation process.
It also thanked the Health Ministry, the Cyprus Federation of Patients’ Associations and the Marketing Authorisation Holder of Eliquis for their cooperation in addressing the issue.
The HIO reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring equal access to necessary treatments, protecting patients from excessive costs and managing Gesy Fund resources effectively.
Source: CNA
