PRESS RELEASE

On 15 May 2026, the Cyprus Association for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease (PA.SY.E.K.K.) held a meeting with the Minister of Health, Mr. Neophytos Charalambides, at the Ministry of Health offices.

Representing PA.SY.E.K.K. were Natasa Theodosiou (President), Lenia Theodosiou (Member), and Athina Spanou (Administrative Officer).

Representing the Ministry of Health were Neophytos Charalambides (Minister of Health), Georgia Giagkou (Advisor/Associate to the Minister of Health), Evi Charitou (Nursing Officer, Ministry of Health Administration), and Revekka Georgiou (First-Class Medical Officer in Pediatrics).

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss longstanding issues affecting both the Association and individuals living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), as well as to promote the Association’s objectives aimed at improving the quality of life of patients in Cyprus.

During the meeting, the following issues were discussed, among others:

• Establishment of an IBD Gastroenterology Clinic or an IBD Day Care Unit in a public hospital.
• De Minimis State Aid Scheme.
• Provision of disability benefits for severe patient cases.
• Recognition of “invisible disability” across all government services and ministries.
• Provision of nutritional supplements, e.g. Modulen, through GHS Clinical Dietitians/Nutritionists (currently this is only possible through OKYPY Clinical Dietitians/Nutritionists).
• Proper composition of Medical Boards and mandatory participation of a Gastroenterologist (not only from OKYPY).
• The need for Paediatric Gastroenterologists.
• Inclusion of biological drug level and antibody testing under HIO coverage, a request that has been pending since 2020!

The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere, with a shared understanding of the need to effectively advance solutions to the above issues for the benefit of patients living with IBD.

PA.SY.E.K.K. will continue its efforts and interventions with the aim of improving the living conditions and care of individuals living with these conditions in Cyprus.