The UK is collaborating with King’s College and Royal Free Hospitals to establish a hepatology clinic in Cyprus at Nicosia General Hospital. Recruitment of hepatologists will begin next year, and this initiative is part of the Cyprus Health Ministry’s commitment to improving patient care for liver diseases. In addition to the clinic, the Health Minister, Popi Kanari, has addressed rising COVID-19 cases and emphasized the importance of vaccination for vulnerable groups. Efforts to strengthen public health infrastructure and safety measures around healthcare facilities are also being implemented.
What are the UK’s contributions to the establishment of a hepatology clinic in Cyprus?
The UK is contributing to the establishment of a Cyprus-based hepatology clinic through collaboration with King’s College and Royal Free Hospitals. They are providing expertise and support in setting up the clinic at Nicosia General Hospital, beginning with recruiting hepatologists to advance patient care for liver diseases.
UK Hospitals Support the Establishment of a Hepatology Clinic
The health sector in Cyprus is set to make significant strides with the planned inauguration of a hepatology clinic, backed by expertise from leading UK medical institutions. Health Minister Popi Kanari, during an interaction with the liver patient association, announced the promising developments. She highlighted that the ministry has been working closely with King’s College and Royal Free Hospitals in London. These renowned hospitals are poised to play an instrumental role in setting up the Cyprus-based clinic.
The minister expressed a firm commitment from the ministry in upholding patient welfare and addressing liver diseases proactively. A testament to this pledge was the recent agreement signed with the UK hospitals. Kanari optimistically noted, “We are at a very good stage, and we already have the reports of the two hospitals, which we are currently reviewing.”
Recruitment of Specialists and Clinic Operations
The upcoming year is expected to witness the establishment of the clinic at the Nicosia General Hospital, starting with the recruitment of hepatologists. The state health services organization Okypy is tasked with announcing two hepatologist positions early next year, setting the stage for the clinic’s operations to commence. The groundwork for this initiative was laid last year when the then Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantela signed a memorandum of understanding in London, aimed at expanding hepatology cooperation and establishing the clinic.
Rising Health Concerns Amidst COVID-19 Resurgence
Recent developments have also seen Health Minister Kanari address the public on health concerns regarding an upswing in COVID-19 cases. Her visit to Makarios Hospital brought attention to the rise in infection rates across the island. This increase aligns with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control’s (ECDC) warnings about respiratory infections that have been contributing to higher hospital admissions.
The minister underscored the importance of vaccination, especially among vulnerable groups such as the elderly. Emphasizing the availability of vaccination centers and mobile units, she urged those hesitant to receive their vaccinations to protect themselves against the ongoing pandemic.
Initiatives for Public Safety and Health Infrastructure
Efforts to strengthen public health extend beyond the clinic’s establishment, with an emphasis on traffic and safety measures around healthcare facilities. Minister Kanari assured the public that the police presence aims to facilitate smooth access to hospitals, especially during this time of increased patient arrivals due to respiratory and COVID-19 related cases.
Citizens were reminded of the importance of following health and safety regulations to ensure the wellbeing of all. The ministry and local authorities continue to encourage the public to stay informed and adhere to guidelines, especially during these challenging times.
Those seeking further assistance or information from the police in Nicosia can reach out via phone at 22-802020 or the Citizen’s Line at 1460. In cases of emergency, the public is urged to dial 112 for immediate support.
What are the UK’s contributions to the establishment of a hepatology clinic in Cyprus?
The UK is contributing to the establishment of a Cyprus-based hepatology clinic through collaboration with King’s College and Royal Free Hospitals. They are providing expertise and support in setting up the clinic at Nicosia General Hospital, beginning with recruiting hepatologists to advance patient care for liver diseases.
When will the recruitment of hepatologists for the clinic begin?
The recruitment of hepatologists for the clinic is set to begin in the upcoming year. The state health services organization Okypy will announce two hepatologist positions early next year, laying the groundwork for the clinic’s operations to commence.
What health concerns has the Health Minister addressed amidst the COVID-19 resurgence?
Health Minister Popi Kanari has addressed the rise in COVID-19 cases and emphasized the importance of vaccination for vulnerable groups. She highlighted the availability of vaccination centers and mobile units and urged those hesitant to receive their vaccinations to protect themselves against the ongoing pandemic.
What efforts are being made to strengthen public health infrastructure and safety measures?
Efforts are being made to strengthen public health infrastructure and safety measures around healthcare facilities. The Health Minister assured the public that there will be a police presence to facilitate smooth access to hospitals, especially during this time of increased patient arrivals due to respiratory and COVID-19 related cases. The ministry and local authorities continue to encourage the public to stay informed and adhere to guidelines to ensure the well-being of all.
