in-cyprus 30 May 2024 - by Marilena Panayi
The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) in Cyprus has identified concerning practices by some pharmacists within the General Healthcare System (GHS) involving billing for medications never dispensed to beneficiaries.
An investigation prompted by complaints revealed pharmacists submitting claims for entire prescriptions even if not all medications were provided due to stock shortages or other reasons. Proper procedure dictates pharmacies only claim for dispensed medications.
Further irregularities included claiming reimbursement for medical-technical products before they were even given to beneficiaries, and dispensing medications to patients before a doctor’s prescription was issued in the system, raising patient safety concerns.
Collaboration between pharmacies and nursing homes also came under scrutiny, with the HIO identifying instances of inaccurate data and potential medication waste.
Pharmacies are required to verify beneficiary details, including deaths or discharges, and review existing stock before refilling prescriptions.
Misidentification of beneficiaries due to improper procedures and dispensing medications based on repeat prescriptions before the allowed refill date were additional issues flagged by the HIO. Early refills can disrupt medication availability for other patients in need.
The HIO has issued a circular reminding pharmacists of their obligations under GESY.
While initial fines are being waived, the HIO emphasises the potential for future penalties if these practices continue.
They are actively monitoring the situation and reserve the right to conduct audits and enforce administrative fines.
