With abuses being one of the major issues affecting the GHS, the Health Insurance Agency (HIA) posted a special Action Plan last March, seeking to effectively address abuses. One of the abuses seen in the System is the large number of unsubstantiated referrals issued by Personal Physicians (PIs) to other GHS providers. As part of the Action Plan, the OAI is proceeding with the implementation of a series of measures to improve the functioning of the PI institution and the referral system.
The measures include, inter alia, the implementation of performance indicators linked to the remuneration of PIs, which relate to the behaviour of PIs in relation to referrals issued to PIs. In addition, it shall also examine referrals for laboratory tests and radiological diagnostic examinations. At the same time, the FIU is intensifying the quality control of referrals issued by PIs, as well as the process of taking action against PIs who do not comply with the Agency's instructions. In addition, other measures to improve the institution of PIs are being promoted, such as implementation of referral guidelines, trainings, age criteria for doctors' participation in the system, etc.
It should be noted that the proper functioning of the institution of PIs is particularly important since its purpose is to provide effective primary health care as well as guidance to beneficiaries in obtaining the services they need from the other providers of the GHS. The proper functioning of the institution and the referral system leads to the discharge of Specialists from cases that do not require specialized treatment. It also achieves more efficient use of System resources, ensuring equitable access to health care services for beneficiaries in need.
The General Health System is the greatest social achievement since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus and it is the duty of all of us to preserve it.
(NΓ/ΣΧ)
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