Cyprus’ long‑awaited national health capacity plan is expected to be completed by the end of March, Health Minister Neofytos Charalambides told parliament’s Health Committee.
Charalambides, addressing lawmakers in his first committee appearance since taking office, said a draft of the “capacity planning” report has already been delivered, with final submission due within the month.
A major focus of the plan is the country’s shortage of nurses.
Charalambides noted that a recent campaign to attract nursing students produced “significant results,” with an 85% increase in enrollment. But he warned that demand continues to grow as hospitals expand bed capacity and new rehabilitation centers come online.
Responding to lawmakers’ calls for stronger support for public hospitals, the minister said state facilities remain the Health Ministry’s top priority. He added that by March 10 he will have completed official visits to all public hospitals, followed by visits to private hospitals participating in the national health system.
Charalambides said the ministry maintains daily oversight of the system through continuous contact and monitoring.