The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) is implementing a series of measures aimed at addressing weaknesses identified in the General Healthcare System (Gesy), drawing on recommendations made by the World Health Organization (WHO), according to Petros Neophytou, senior officer at the HIO's Providers Directorate.
Speaking on Politis Radio 107.6 and 97.6, Mr Neophytou said the WHO report was prepared in close cooperation with the HIO following an initiative by the organisation itself, which requested the international body's assistance in evaluating the system and proposing improvements.
According to Mr Neophytou, the issues highlighted in the report were already known to the HIO and had formed part of its discussions with the WHO.
Focus on family doctors
Referring to the institution of the Personal Doctor (Family Doctor), Mr Neophytou said it was a relatively new concept introduced with the implementation of Gesy.
He noted that during the system's initial years, beneficiaries showed a stronger preference for specialist doctors. However, more recent surveys indicate that public confidence in family doctors is gradually increasing.
According to Mr Neophytou, WHO recommendations place particular emphasis on the quality of healthcare services provided through the system.
Quality indicators under review
He said quality indicators and performance criteria for adult and paediatric personal doctors have been in place since 2023.
These are currently being reviewed and expanded, taking into account feedback from both healthcare professionals and beneficiaries.
Mr Neophytou stated that the application of quality indicators has already contributed to improvements in specific areas of primary healthcare, including:
- Vaccination coverage.
- Preventive monitoring of patients.
He added that the role of the personal doctor is being strengthened progressively and that data collected through the system's information platform enables the HIO to identify weaknesses more accurately.
Measures against abuse
On the issue of abuse, Mr Neophytou acknowledged that cases of:
- Overprescribing.
- Excessive referrals.
- Inappropriate use of healthcare services.
continue to be recorded.
To address these problems, he said the HIO has introduced clinical guidelines, referral protocols and quantitative performance indicators.
Specialised HIO teams also carry out qualitative, quantitative and financial audits of healthcare providers.
Tougher penalties proposed
Mr Neophytou said sanctions have already been imposed on healthcare professionals in cases where abuses have been identified.
He added that the HIO is promoting legislative amendments that would allow it to impose stricter administrative fines when violations are detected.
Greater transparency planned
On transparency, Mr Neophytou said the organisation's objective is to publish quality indicators for healthcare providers within the next five years.
The aim, he said, is to enable beneficiaries to choose doctors and healthcare facilities based on objective information.
He stressed, however, that improving the reliability of the data collected remains a prerequisite before publication can take place, so as to avoid inaccurate or misleading conclusions.
Gesy remains financially sustainable
Mr Neophytou also said Gesy remains financially sustainable.
According to him, growth in the system's budget reflects an increase in the number of beneficiaries and corresponding contributions, rather than any increase in the contribution rates paid by citizens.
