Doctors’ Union: healthcare share in the 2026 budget must be at least 11%

KTTB stated that in the 2026 budget draft, healthcare expenditures should account for at least 11% of the total budget. The organization emphasized that the new financial program should focus not on treating diseases, but on prevention and health promotion.

The Union’s statement notes that 2025 became a period when problems with access to medical services and the workload of medical personnel only intensified. Despite investments in healthcare, they did not bring the expected results due to the lack of effective organization.

“The 2026 budget must be based not on illness, but on a system that prevents disease,” the statement says. The Union called for more funds to be allocated to primary care, public health, prevention of chronic diseases, and early diagnosis programs.

KTTB also emphasized that improving healthcare quality cannot be achieved solely through investments in buildings and equipment. A system of accreditation, evaluation, and continuous professional development of industry workers is necessary.

The organization suggested paying special attention to regional medical accessibility: “Northern Cyprus should be covered by a network of outpatient clinics so residents can receive medical care locally.”

The statement also highlights the importance of training medical staff for the new hospitals in Girne, Güzelyurt, and Nicosia — staff training, according to the Union, should be included in the budget in advance.

“The 2026 budget must not repeat past mistakes. It should not be just a financial document, but an investment in people, the future, and quality of life,” the statement concludes.