Public hospital doctors' union protests cancellation of 24 positions

The Pancyprian Union of Government Doctors (PASYKI) has formally protested the elimination of 24 medical positions within the public health sector. The Ministry of Health cancelled 15 positions formerly held by retired physicians, while the State Health Services Organization (OKYpY) removed 9 additional positions from its annual budget. PASYKI chairman Sotiris Koumas expressed particular concern regarding the removal of four to five psychiatry positions, citing rising demand for these specialized services. The union argues that the reduction of staff undermines public hospitals, potentially forcing patients to seek care from private providers. The Ministry and OKYpY have not provided a detailed justification or long-term plan for these personnel cuts. PASYKI representatives describe the move as a deliberate weakening of the public healthcare system rather than an effort towards modernization. The union is now demanding accountability and clarification on the criteria used to determine these staffing cuts.