Private healthcare providers to discuss service cuts due to nurse shortages

On March 31, 2026, representatives of private healthcare providers are meeting at the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) to address a critical shortage of nursing staff. Michalis Antoniou, Director General of OEB, stated that the meeting will consider the suspension or sporadic provision of certain medical services. Private providers have faced difficulties in hiring nursing staff, including a parliamentary blockade on proposed measures to facilitate recruitment from third countries. While reports suggest these issues are exacerbated by political dynamics and the current pre-election period, the industry maintains that it will not compromise patient safety or quality of care. The meeting aims to evaluate potential measures to manage the operational constraints caused by the staff deficit. This situation has been developing for several months, with private hospitals frequently warning of potential service impacts. Authorities and unions remain divided on the appropriate strategies to resolve the systemic personnel challenges. Further updates are expected following the conclusion of the session.