Monica Kyriakou, Director of the Cypriot patients in Israel Health Insurance Organisation (OGA), has provided an update on Cypriot patients currently hospitalised in Israel amid escalating regional tensions and missile attacks.
Eight patients with family escorts
According to Dr Kyriakou, eight patients from Cyprus are presently in Israel, each accompanied by a family member. From the outset, OGA has maintained constant communication with the hospitals treating the patients to ensure both their safety and uninterrupted medical care.
Most cases involve particularly serious conditions, mainly newborns and infants only a few weeks old, who were transferred to Israel for specialised treatment. “These are not cases that can be discharged and managed elsewhere,” she emphasised.
Secure hospital facilities
Dr Kyriakou noted that assurances received from the hospitals and the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Israel confirm that patients and their escorts have been moved to specially designated safe areas within the hospitals, including underground shelters, without disruption to medical services.
Communication remains continuous and multi-level, involving hospital administrations, families of patients, and close coordination with the embassy.
Repatriation process underway
Regarding potential repatriation, Dr Kyriakou revealed that three of the eight patients have expressed a desire to return to Cyprus.
OGA is already collecting all necessary medical information to determine whether transfer is safe and if the patients can continue treatment in suitably equipped and specialised hospitals in Cyprus.
Where medically feasible, repatriation will be arranged promptly, including via air ambulance where required.
Dr Kyriakou reiterated that this is a dynamic and ongoing process, with authorities closely monitoring developments, prioritising the safety and health of all patients.
Also read: The risk of Iranian attack on Cyprus is “very limited”, says Fidan
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