The General Healthcare System of Cyprus, known as GESY (ΓεΣΥ in Greek), is a comprehensive healthcare framework introduced in 2019 to provide equal access to medical services for all Cypriot citizens. Funded by contributions from employers, employees, and the government, GESY ensures that every resident has access to a range of healthcare services from both private and public sectors, including doctor visits, laboratory tests, surgeries, and emergency care.

Key Features of GESY

GESY offers a wide range of services, from GP visits and specialized treatments to diagnostics, emergency care, and mental health support. Supported by a large network of providers, including GPs, specialists, pharmacies, and labs, GESY streamlines healthcare access for all Cypriots. Patients choose their own GP, who coordinates referrals to specialists, ensuring efficient and organized care.

Future Goals

GESY faces challenges like funding stability, wait times, and resource distribution. The government and HIO aim to address these by expanding the provider network, enhancing digital health solutions, and improving service efficiency, with goals to integrate telemedicine and strengthen mental health support.

Cyprus is a well-established hub for pharmaceutical exports, known for producing a wide array of pharmaceutical products, including generic medicines. Cyprus-based companies export medicines to over 100 countries worldwide. This international reach reflects the country’s strong regulatory alignment with EU standards and its adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), which is key to ensuring the safety and quality of medicines.

Cyprus’s pharmaceutical sector includes both manufacturing and distribution. Most companies focus on the development of generic drugs, which are cost-effective alternatives to branded medicines, making healthcare more affordable both locally and internationally.

The industry also contributes significantly to employment and skill development in Cyprus. With a highly educated workforce and advanced manufacturing facilities, the pharmaceutical sector attracts professionals in research, production, and quality assurance. This has helped position Cyprus as an attractive location for pharmaceutical investments and partnerships within the EU framework.

Cyprus-based pharmaceutical companies

Remedica Ltd
Remedica is one of Cyprus’s largest and oldest pharmaceutical companies, specializing in the production of generic medicines for various therapeutic areas. It exports to over 100 countries and focuses on high-quality, affordable medications.

Medochemie Ltd
Medochemie, headquartered in Limassol, is a major pharmaceutical manufacturer known for producing a wide range of generic medicines. It has a strong export presence in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East and adheres to international manufacturing standards.

Delorbis Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Based in Nicosia, Delorbis Pharmaceuticals develops, manufactures, and markets pharmaceutical products for a range of therapeutic categories. The company exports to multiple countries, emphasizing quality and compliance with EU GMP standards.

Through the following institutions, Cyprus is continuously expanding its contributions to healthcare research, addressing both local and international health challenges. By fostering a collaborative environment for medical research, Cyprus not only improves healthcare for its residents but also adds valuable insights to the global medical community.

Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING)
Founded in 1990, CING is a leading research center specializing in neurology, genetics, and biomedical research. It is internationally recognized for its work in neurogenetics, molecular biology, and cytogenetics and provides diagnostic and therapeutic services. CING also offers master’s and doctoral programs, focusing on healthcare and medical genetics.

Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) – Department of Nursing
CUT is well-known for its contributions to healthcare research, particularly in the nursing field, health informatics, and healthcare technology. Researchers at CUT focus on issues such as patient care quality, healthcare systems management, and developing digital health solutions.

Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health (CIIEPH)
Operated by Cyprus University of Technology, CIIEPH focuses on public health research with an emphasis on environmental health, epidemiology, and occupational health. The institute collaborates with institutions worldwide, addressing the impact of environmental factors on health.

Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF)
Although not a university, RIF supports research projects across Cyprus, including healthcare and medical sciences. Through grants and funding, RIF advances local research capacity and encourages collaboration between Cyprus-based and international researchers.

Cyprus Oncology Society
The Cyprus Oncology Society supports research initiatives related to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In collaboration with healthcare institutions, the society works to enhance the quality of cancer care in Cyprus through both clinical and applied research.

Cyprus Society of Human Genetics
This organization promotes research in genetics, particularly in areas impacting public health such as hereditary diseases. It collaborates closely with CING and other Cypriot institutions, emphasizing genetic research to address inherited conditions common in the region.

Biobank Cyprus
Biobank Cyprus is a research facility associated with the University of Cyprus, providing essential resources for genetic and biomedical research. It supports studies focused on complex diseases, population health, and personalized medicine, serving as a key resource for medical researchers.

University of Cyprus (UCY) – Medical School
The Medical School at UCY engages in extensive research activities, particularly in epidemiology, cardiology, oncology, and public health. It is affiliated with the university’s Institute of Cancer Research, which promotes oncology research, and collaborates on projects related to environmental health, rare diseases, and population health.

European University Cyprus (EUC) – School of Medicine
EUC’s School of Medicine emphasizes research in clinical sciences and biomedicine. The university collaborates with international partners on projects in fields such as cardiology, oncology, and mental health, advancing medical knowledge in Cyprus and beyond.

University of Nicosia Medical School
The University of Nicosia Medical School is one of Cyprus’s primary institutions for medical training and research. The school’s research focuses on health sciences, public health, and healthcare policy, contributing to global studies and collaborations in medicine and public health initiatives.

In ancient times, Cyprus held a notable place in the field of medicine, thanks to its rich mineral resources and diverse vegetation, both key for producing medicinal remedies. This attracted renowned physicians, including the famous Galen, who visited the island in the 2nd century AD. A recent two-year research project gathered all available information on Cypriot doctors and medicinal practices, exploring ancient medical tools, healing deities, and the use of magic for protection.

Ancient Cypriot Doctors

Among the most prominent Cypriot doctors were Apollonios of Kition and Zenon the Cypriot. Apollonios, a 1st-century BC surgeon and writer, studied under Zopirus in Alexandria and was a major figure in ancient Cyprus. His surviving work, On Joints, commissioned by King Ptolemy of Cyprus, includes 30 illustrations demonstrating joint treatment techniques and is among the oldest illustrated medical texts. Zenon, active in the 4th century AD, established a prestigious medical school in Alexandria and trained prominent doctors, earning admiration from figures like Emperor Julian.

(Michaelides, Demetrios 2009. Medicine in Ancient Cyprus. )

Asklepieion

The Asklepeion in Paphos, dedicated to Asclepius, the ancient Greek god of healing, was an important medical and religious site. Located within the Paphos Archaeological Park, it served as a sanctuary where people sought cures through rituals, rest, and medical treatments. Visitors can explore the ruins and gain insight into ancient practices of health and healing in a serene historical setting.

Cyprus, like many countries around the world, faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the situation has improved, it’s important to remember the impact of the virus on the island. With a population of 0,9 million, there were 1,365 deaths (a death rate of about 1 per 1,650 people) and 681,000 cases.

The Cypriot government took steps to control the spread of the virus, including:

• Lockdowns: Strict lockdowns were imposed during peak periods to limit social interactions.
• Mask Mandates: Wearing masks in public spaces was mandatory for a significant period.
• Social Distancing: Physical distancing measures were enforced to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Vaccination Campaigns: The government launched extensive vaccination campaigns to protect the population.

High Life Expectancy with Health Challenges for Women
In Cyprus, life expectancy is high (81.7 years in 2022) and 78% of residents report good health, yet women over 65 face higher rates of disability and illness. Tobacco use contributed to 19% of deaths in 2019, exceeding the EU average (17%), though deaths from alcohol (4%) and dietary risks (14%) are lower than EU averages.

Both preventable and treatable mortality rates in Cyprus are well below the EU averages (2023)

Health Spending Reforms

Public health spending growth in Cyprus began pre-COVID-19 to reduce out-of-pocket costs, with spending as a share of total health expenses dropping significantly—from 34% in 2019 to 10% in 2021—reducing catastrophic health spending.

Current health expenditure as a share of GDP in Cyprus is lower than the EU average (2023)