The OKYPY probe has raised questions over whether a doctor facing serious allegations should have been suspended, with the Health Services Organisation (OKYPY) defending the procedures it has followed.
OKYPY spokesperson Charalambos Charilaou said the organisation’s actions have been immediate and fully in line with legislation, while responding to repeated questions from journalists over why the doctor remains in his position as head of a clinic.
Questions over doctor’s continued duties
Journalists pointed out that the doctor continues to serve as a clinical director despite complaints involving possible medical negligence offences.
They questioned whether, as happens in other public services, he should have been temporarily removed from his duties until the investigation is completed.
Responding, Charilaou stressed that OKYPY reacts quickly when such matters arise but clarified that suspension is not a form of punishment for an employee under investigation.
“Suspension is applied only when there is a suspicion that the investigation may be affected. Under current legislation, someone who is accused is not automatically punished by being placed on suspension. Everyone is considered innocent until proven otherwise,” he said.
Concerns over possible influence
During the discussion, a journalist raised concerns that a clinic director could potentially influence employees who have made complaints against him, including through performance assessments or workplace pressure.
Charilaou said all possible circumstances are considered before any suspension decision is made, adding that not every employee who faces a complaint can automatically be removed from their position.
Another journalist questioned whether the seriousness of the allegations alone should justify stricter measures, noting that multiple colleagues raising concerns about possible serious failures could create legitimate concerns regarding patient safety.
Legal criteria guide decisions
Charilaou said authorities take all available information into account before deciding whether suspension is necessary.
He noted that there have been cases where doctors placed on suspension successfully challenged the decision in court because it was found there was no risk of influencing the investigation.
He explained that the criteria applied are the same as those used for all public officials under the Public Service Law, with decisions also taken following advice from the Law Office.
OKYPY denies any cover-up
The OKYPY spokesperson stressed that the organisation follows strict procedures and protocols across all public hospitals and rejected any suggestion of covering up complaints.
“People should not be afraid to report incidents. The procedures are such that there can be no cover-up or concealment of any case,” he said.
Journalists reiterated that the matter does not concern a simple administrative issue, but allegations against a doctor who continues to hold responsibility for patients, making a swift investigation even more important.
Charilaou responded that OKYPY is not opposed to suspending any employee, provided the legal requirements are met.
He added that staff evaluations are not the sole responsibility of a clinic director, as they involve two levels of hierarchy, are documented and can be challenged through legal procedures.
Investigations ongoing
Regarding the progress of the investigations, Charilaou said investigating officers have been appointed for all cases and procedures are continuing.
Asked about a timeline, he said developments could follow in the first case once the investigating officer completes and submits the report.
He added that the report concerning a second set of complaints has already been completed and is currently before OKYPY’s legal department for assessment and recommendations on further action.
Regarding the completion of the legal review, Charilaou said that when a report contains a large volume of statements and evidence, sufficient time is required to ensure a complete and impartial examination.
Also read: 4-year-old boy declared brain dead after meningitis symptoms
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
