The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) reports a positive initial assessment of the new procedures governing c-sections within Cyprus’ General Healthcare System (GESY), although the medical community says it is still too early to draw firm conclusions.
The new framework, which came into effect on 16 February 2026, introduced specific clinical indications and documentation requirements for c-sections, aiming to improve monitoring and gradually reduce high rates in Cyprus.
Doctors urge caution over early conclusions
Medical professionals remain cautious, stressing that more time is needed before evaluating the effectiveness of the measures.
Monica Kyriakou said the initial evaluation is positive, noting that both public and private hospitals have adapted smoothly to the new requirements.
However, Aphrodite Elisseos described c-sections rates as a “multifactorial phenomenon”, warning against premature conclusions and expressing clear disagreement with the use of financial incentives or penalties.
New guidelines and documentation system
Under the revised system, c-sections are classified into planned, emergency, and maternal-request procedures, each requiring documentation to justify reimbursement.
New communication tools between doctors and pregnant women have also been introduced, aiming to improve informed decision-making and standardise clinical discussions.
Monitoring and enforcement mechanisms
The HIO says it carries out both systematic and random audits of providers to ensure compliance with the new criteria, including documentation checks and claims reviews.
Officials stress that the goal is to ensure proper use of the system and adherence to evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Incentives system under pilot phase
A pilot programme introducing incentives and disincentives for c-sections rates is currently under way, with monthly monitoring of non-medically indicated procedures per doctor.
However, implementation of penalties has been postponed until January 2027 following discussions with the medical community and the Ministry of Health.
Doctors’ representatives argue that c-sections rates are influenced by multiple factors and should not be addressed through punitive financial measures.
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