The law regulating, for the first time in Cyprus, palliative care services has been passed.
Presenting the bill, the chairman of the parliamentary committee on Health, Efthymios Diplaros, stressed that now all citizens gain access to the services they need at the moment they are at the most vulnerable moment of their lives.
Through the law, an organized framework of palliative care services is established, which includes the creation of specialized units inside and outside hospitals and other structures as well as the development of home care. At the same time, the training of health professionals is provided to meet the special needs of these patients with sensitivity and adequacy.
Particular importance is given to ensuring the dignity and autonomy of patients, enabling them to actively participate in decisions concerning their care. In addition, the law promotes cooperation between the public and private sectors, as well as with non-governmental organizations.
AKEL MP Marina Nikolaou said for her part that this law "was delayed for many years to be passed" and underlined the need for further strengthening.
MP Andreas Apostolou pointed out the fact that "until today, palliative care was offered by the two major associations of cancer patients "Anti-Cancer Association" and PASYKAF.
MP Marinos Sizopoulos, referring to the essence of the law, stressed the need for proper control, proper infrastructure and targeted care.
MP Pavlos Mylonas referred to the fact that with the passing of the legislation, the way is opened for the operation of new structures, both in the public and private sectors.
The parliamentary representative of DIKO, Panikos Leonidou, argued that the passage of the law is a "step towards a more dignified living of seriously ill people".
The President greets
"Another important step in the further upgrading of health services to Cypriot citizens was taken today with the approval of the Law that regulates - for the first time in our country - palliative care services," says the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides in a written statement.
''I welcome the unanimous passage by the Parliament of the government bill that introduces a comprehensive support framework for patients with serious diseases. This is a fundamental breakthrough in the health system of our country, as the provision of quality, safe and dignified care to patients facing serious and life-threatening diseases, as well as to their families, which are an integral part of the treatment process, is now ensured. The legislation implements a moral and institutional obligation of the state to ensure universal access of citizens to services with an interdisciplinary approach and to the continuous support of patients at every stage of their illness," he adds.
"The establishment of the National Palliative Care Council, an institution that will ensure the quality of the services provided, the scientific competence and the effective coordination of all stakeholders, is of key importance. The participation of organised patients and representatives of relevant organisations enhances transparency, accountability and a meaningful response to the real needs of society. Today's development confirms in practice the State's commitment to a health system that is more humane, fairer and closer to the citizen that adds quality, dignity and care at every moment", concludes the President.
