AN INSIGHT TO GESY
A NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE FOR THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
Successfully covering over 90% of the population, GESY, which was launched in 2019, is the universal, single-payer healthcare system of the Republic of Cyprus. Administered by the Health Insurance Organisation, it largely replaced a fragmented dual public-private framework that had existed on the island since 1960.
A HYBRID HEALTH SYSTEM
The system today functions much like a hybrid national health system, benefiting from a national social health insurance scheme. Beneficiaries can access care from both state-run hospitals and contracted private medical facilities for minimal out-of-pocket costs.
A GATEKEEPER MODEL
The system relies on a physician-centred, gatekeeper model to manage treatments. The Greek Cypriot health system is financed through mandatory, capped payroll deductions and state subsidies, and every beneficiary registers with a local general practitioner. Patients must see their GP first to secure referrals for further specialised treatment. The comprehensive benefits package includes outpatient services, GP visits, specialist appointments, lab tests, and prescription medicines.
Secure a free Global or European health insurance card to recieve free medical assistance from state hospitals in Cyprus!
Please note that while these cards provide free basic health care, it is still advisable to take out extra health insurance if extra or advanced health care may be required.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR EU NATIONALS
European Union citizens can receive free medical assistance from all state hospitals across Cyprus. A free European Health Insurance Card, however, is required. This is easily obtained before travelling. EHIC medical cards are normally issued for up to five years and provide access to free state medical treatment anywhere within the European Union, which includes Cyprus. To qualify, the recipient must be a citizen of any European Union member state. Presently, citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland also benefit from this scheme.
Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR UK NATIONALS
Citizens of the United Kingdom can also receive free medical assistance from all state hospitals across Cyprus with a free Global Health Insurance Card. This can easily be obtained before travelling. GHIC medical cards are normally issued for up to five years and provide access to free state medical treatment anywhere within the European Union, which includes Cyprus. To qualify, the recipient must be a citizen of the United Kingdom
Private Health Insurance
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR NON-EU & UK NATIONALS
There is currently no provision for free medical assistance in Cyprus for non-United Kingdom or European Union nationals. All visitors from outside of these areas should purchase private travel insurance and make sure that all possible medical eventualities are covered.
