Recently there has been turbulence yet again in the health sector. Is seems that much better foundations are needed and definitely Public and Private health need to start walking hand in hand. The following article should be viewed bearing in mind the above. A good start would be for the two sectors to cooperate closely in creating universally accepted clinical governance, policy and protocols. If we get this is place, then a General Health System and everything else will follow smoothly and work harmonically. Only then will medical tourism flourish too.
Cyprus is an island having a unique geographical position. Being in the boarder of Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East is making itself easily accessible. It became a member of the EU in 2004 ensuring that all EU directives were introduced into Cyprus legislation. Cyprus has been always an attractive tourist destination.
Good healthcare is an essential part for our daily lives. Taking into account its increasing cost and the global economic crisis, Cyprus has been growing and improving its medical services over the last years in order to give a cost effective solution on this issue combining medical tourism with a relaxing holiday.
During this endeavor of Cyprus to strengthen its medical sector, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry established in year 2006 the Cyprus Health Services Promotion Board, a non-profit organisation having as members all the hospitals, private clinics, doctors and other stakeholders of the medical tourism industry in Cyprus.
This organisation cooperates with the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, the Ministry of Energy Commerce, Industry and Tourism, the Ministry of Health, the Cyprus Medical Association and the Cyprus Dental Association, enabling visitors same day appointments, with added benefits such as quick transportation due to the short travelling distances in the island.
A highly qualified staff mainly trained in Europe or the USA and specialized and experienced doctors with an excellent knowledge of the English language and other languages (Russian, French, German etc.) provide a very good medical treatment in Cyprus following high Nursing Standards and Clinical Governance in general. Our hospitals and clinics are equipped with top-of-the-line medical equipment and a pleasant environment. Our traditional hospitality and the excellent facilities constitute additional incentives for the visitor.
A wide range of medical services is provided in Cyprus such as Elective surgery, Dentistry, Cosmetic and plastic surgery, Eye surgery, Vascular surgery, Orthopaedic surgery and much more.
The demand for medical services is constantly increasing over recent years. This is due to the increase of aging population as well as the population of the country in general. Cyprus is a popular choice with an international reputation. The main markets for Cyprus are the UK, Russia and Middle East with China growing strong; Cyprus strategies should be aiming on enhancing medical tourism by attracting new stakeholders of the medical tourism industry, including hospitals, individual doctors, hotel managers, spa and wellness centers, travel agency companies, medical coordinators, government officials and many more. For this purpose, Cyprus strategies include development and promotion of health tourism such as organization of conferences in Cyprus, organization of familiarization trips hosting foreign decision makers and organization of educational “seminars”.
In concluding, we have summarized the main advantages of medical tourism in Cyprus. The comparatively lower prices, modern and well-equipped hospitals and clinics, small waiting lists, experienced and specialized staff, confidentiality, language, ideal weather conditions, low pollution, respect for all cultures and religions, and the Cypriot hospitality can accommodate treatment to the highest standards.
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