Doctors Raise Concerns over Staff Shortages at Famagusta Hospital

The Cyprus doctors’ union, Pasyki, has voiced serious concerns about a shortage of physicians in the emergency department at Famagusta General Hospital, warning that this issue could significantly impact patient health and safety.

Union representatives attribute the staffing shortage to "poor management" by the state health service, Okypy.

According to the union, following the recent resignation of three specialist doctors, Okypy decided to fill the gaps by contracting services from underqualified physicians. Pasyki argues that this decision violates existing laws, regulations, and agreements established to maintain quality care standards.

Pasyki also criticized the hospital’s chief physician for their involvement in restructuring the emergency department’s duty schedule, calling it "a peak example of mismanagement."

The union’s statement went on to explain that the hospital director attempted to shift responsibility onto medical staff by mandating a single doctor to cover a 12-hour night shift. Union members described this approach as “unacceptable and deserving of condemnation.”

Pasyki emphasized that, to ensure safe staffing levels, the emergency department requires at least two doctors per shift.