Cabinet Approves Creation of 1 Vital ‘Patient Advocate’ Role: 8 Key Points to Know

Cabinet Approves Creation of ‘Patient Advocate’ Role: 8 Key Details You Should Know

Introduction

On Thursday, the Cabinet approved a significant new bill that introduces the role of a “patient advocate,” as announced by Health Minister Michael Damianos. This role is designed to address longstanding calls from patients, citizens, and political parties for better protection and advocacy of patient rights.

Why the Patient Advocate Role is Important

Addressing Patient Needs
Health Minister Michael Damianos emphasized that this role has been highly requested by various stakeholders, including patients, concerned citizens, and political groups. The introduction of a patient advocate is seen as a crucial step towards improving patient care and safeguarding their rights.

Impact on Society and Health Services
Damianos stated that the passing of the bill will benefit society at large and enhance the quality of health services. The patient advocate will play a key role in ensuring that patients’ rights are protected both within and outside of the General Health System (Gesy).

Responsibilities of the Patient Advocate

Handling Complaints and Reports
The appointed patient advocate will have the authority to investigate complaints and reports related to patient rights. This includes providing information, updates, and organizing educational programs to increase awareness about patients’ rights.

Educational and Awareness Campaigns
The advocate will also be responsible for organizing campaigns and educational initiatives aimed at educating the public and healthcare providers about patient rights and services.

Supporting Structures

Advisory Committee
The bill includes provisions for creating an advisory committee to support the patient advocate’s work. This committee will help guide the advocate and ensure that the role effectively addresses patient concerns.

Strengthened Complaint Review Committees
The bill will also strengthen the complaint review committees across the country. These committees will now handle complaints both within and outside of Gesy, enhancing their ability to address patient issues comprehensively.

Government and Presidential Support

President Nikos Christodoulides’ Commitment
President Nikos Christodoulides highlighted that creating the patient advocate role aligns with the government’s commitment to improving health services and protecting patient rights. He described it as a part of the government’s social contract with the Cypriot people.

Election Campaign Promise
Christodoulides recalled that the promise to establish this role was made during his election campaign. He stressed that the advocate will not only handle complaints but will also work on proposals to improve healthcare institutions.

Transition of Responsibilities

Role of the Gesy Supervision Commissioner
At the end of last month, Damianos revealed plans to introduce legislation that would end the duties of the Gesy supervision commissioner. These responsibilities would be transferred to the health ministry, with the patient advocate taking over the commissioner’s role concerning patient complaints.

Job Security Concerns
There were concerns among civil servants about job losses due to the closure of the commissioner’s office. Damianos reassured that no jobs would be lost; instead, the responsibilities would be reallocated within the health ministry.

Reactions and Support

Support from Patient Associations
The federation of Cyprus patients’ associations (Osak) has endorsed the creation of the patient advocate role. Federation secretary Marios Charalambides praised the move, stating that it addresses a significant gap in the health sector and will lead to necessary reforms.

Calls for Reform
Charalambides and other supporters believe that this new role will strengthen patient advocacy and ensure that health sector supervision and control are improved.

Historical Context and Future Plans

Origins of the Idea
The idea for a patient advocate was first proposed in 2021 by then-Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantela. The proposal gained momentum earlier this year with Health Minister Michael Damianos pledging to push forward with reforms aimed at enhancing the healthcare system.

Looking Ahead
Damianos is committed to submitting additional bills to Parliament to further improve healthcare services and empower healthcare providers. The goal is to offer a more comprehensive and effective health service across Cyprus.

In summary, the creation of the ‘patient advocate’ role represents a major step forward in protecting patient rights and improving health services. The new role will address complaints, provide valuable information, and spearhead educational campaigns, all while being supported by an advisory committee and strengthened review processes. The government’s commitment to this reform underscores a broader effort to enhance the quality and effectiveness of healthcare in Cyprus.