The Cabinet approved a bill on Wednesday regulating the registration, operation, and oversight of biomedical and specialised biomedical laboratories. Health Minister Michalis Damianou described it as “a particularly significant bill” for the healthcare sector in the country.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, Damianou noted that the bill has been under discussion among stakeholders and relevant services for over a decade. He emphasised that the primary goal is to ensure the quality of healthcare services provided to the citizens.
Key provisions of the bill
The bill aims to regulate the operation of biomedical and specialised laboratories offering complex services requiring advanced scientific and technical expertise. It establishes requirements for infrastructure, equipment, and staffing to ensure the optimal functioning of these laboratories and the quality of patient services. The methods used in these laboratories must undergo mandatory accreditation.
Damianou highlighted that the Ministry of Health, as the supervisory authority, will oversee the implementation of the provisions through a designated oversight mechanism.
Regulation of biomedical scientists
In addition to the legislation on clinical laboratories, the Cabinet also approved a bill regulating the profession of biomedical scientists. This includes those staffing both general and specialised biomedical laboratories. The legislation establishes the Council for the Registration of Qualified Directors and Biomedical Scientists to oversee the profession.
Call for swift adoption
Damianou urged the House of Representatives to proceed with the adoption of the submitted bills. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Health plans to present additional significant legislation to Parliament in the near future.
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