Finance Minister Makis Keravnos has dismissed claims of potential misuse of Gesy’s healthcare funds as unfounded, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services and ensuring funds are used solely for healthcare. The Health Minister Popi Kanari has reassured that no funds will be cut from Gesy, and discussions are scheduled to occur to further deliberate these matters.
What has the Finance Minister said about the alleged misuse of healthcare funds in Gesy?
Finance Minister Makis Keravnos has dismissed claims of potential misuse of Gesy’s healthcare funds as unfounded, stating the government’s commitment to Gesy is unwavering. Keravnos emphasized the focus on enhancing healthcare services and ensuring funds are used solely for healthcare, addressing concerns over fiscal management and the dedication of increased budgets to improve service levels.
Government’s Commitment to Healthcare Integrity
In a recent development, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos has firmly dismissed allegations relating to the potential misuse of funds from Gesy, the national health scheme. The patients’ association, known as Osak, voiced concerns that loopholes may exist within the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) that could lead to financial interference. The patients’ association, represented by Chairman Charalambos Papadopoulos, stated that current laws strictly limit the use of these funds to healthcare alone. Despite this, the fear is that the existence of a significant reserve might tempt others to legally alter the funds’ designated purpose.
Keravnos has been clear in his response, labeling the group’s fears as unfounded and deeming them a “sick fantasy.” He emphasized the government’s dedication to the Gesy system, highlighting its importance as a societal achievement aimed at the enhancement of state health services and insurance systems. This commitment is intended to ensure a satisfactory healthcare service within the confines of the state’s fiscal budget.
Rising Budgets, Dwindling Service Levels
Despite an increasing budget for healthcare, Keravnos noted a decline in service levels, calling attention to his concerns over potential mismanagement. He pointed out the lack of implementation regarding legislation for the gradual independence of public hospitals. Further complicating matters, the HIO’s audited financial statements have not yet been presented.
Keravnos reinforced his support for Gesy, asserting that public debates on the issue are superfluous and detrimental. He called for a concentration on productivity improvements over workforce expansion, acknowledging that while the 2024 budget reflects a 14% increase, some newly arising issues will be addressed in a supplementary budget.
Health Minister’s Reassurances
Echoing Keravnos’s sentiments, Health Minister Popi Kanari assured that no funds would be cut from Gesy, a stance supported by the proposed 2024 budget. Discussions are scheduled to occur between the HIO, the finance minister, and other stakeholders to further deliberate these matters.
During a visit to the clinics of Nicosia General Hospital, Kanari conveyed her New Year wishes to patients and staff, recognizing the latter’s resilience in challenging situations typical of the healthcare profession. She mentioned the goals for 2024, which revolve around enhancing health services and patient care.
Looking Ahead to 2024
The government’s priority for the upcoming year is clear: to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services. As the budget increases, the focus is on optimizing the use of funds and ensuring they are dedicated solely to healthcare advancements. As Kanari has highlighted, there is a need for additional staff at the HIO, signifying an intent to strengthen the organization’s operational capabilities. With these measures in place, the administration is set on safeguarding the integrity of Gesy’s funds and fostering a more robust healthcare system for the future.
What has the Finance Minister said about the alleged misuse of healthcare funds in Gesy?
Finance Minister Makis Keravnos has dismissed claims of potential misuse of Gesy’s healthcare funds as unfounded, stating the government’s commitment to Gesy is unwavering. Keravnos emphasized the focus on enhancing healthcare services and ensuring funds are used solely for healthcare, addressing concerns over fiscal management and the dedication of increased budgets to improve service levels.
What are the concerns raised by the patients’ association regarding Gesy’s funds?
The patients’ association, Osak, has expressed concerns about potential loopholes within the Health Insurance Organization (HIO) that could lead to financial interference. They worry that despite laws strictly limiting the use of funds to healthcare alone, a significant reserve might tempt others to alter the funds’ designated purpose.
What is the Finance Minister’s view on the declining service levels in healthcare despite increasing budgets?
The Finance Minister has noted a decline in service levels despite increasing budgets for healthcare. He has expressed concern over potential mismanagement and the lack of implementation regarding legislation for the gradual independence of public hospitals. The audited financial statements of the HIO have not yet been presented, further complicating the matter.
What reassurances has the Health Minister given regarding Gesy’s funds?
Health Minister Popi Kanari has reassured that no funds will be cut from Gesy, and this stance is supported by the proposed 2024 budget. Discussions are scheduled to occur between the HIO, the finance minister, and other stakeholders to further deliberate these matters and address any arising issues.
