Nicosia: The appointment of the first Patient Ombudsman is expected to be completed within September, Health Minister Michalis Damianos has told CNA, assuring that this institution will operate shortly.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the appointment of the Patient Ombudsman is now at an advanced stage and will be announced within the next two weeks. The Health Minister explained that it took additional time for the final selection of the person who will be appointed as the first Ombudsman, describing the institution as significant.
Damianos further pointed out that the supervision of the General Health System (GeSY) continues as normal by the Ministry of Health, with the support of the same personnel who staffed the Office of the former GeSY Supervisory Commissioner.
The Health Minister clarified that the delay in appointing the Patient Ombudsman is not due to any problems or delays by the Ministry, but rather the decision rests with the President of the Republic. Damianos emphasized the importance of selecting the appropriate person for this “emblematic institution,” stating, “It is up to the President of the Republic to proceed with the appointment of the competent person. The institution of the Ombudsman is emblematic and this will be the first Ombudsman, so it still taking some time. The position will be filled within September.”