The Cyprus Integrity Forum (CIF) organised on the 21st of November an open event titled “Transparency in the Health Sector – Lessons for Cyprus”, under the auspices of the honourable Minister of Health Mr Michalis Hadjipantela.
The event was initiated by the Vice-Chair of the B.o.D. of CIF Ms Elena Tanou, who welcomed the attendants and briefly outlined the event agenda. The Chairman of Cyprus Integrity Forum Mr Marios Skandalis welcomed in turn the audience with a short speech and consequently greeted the General Director of the Ministry of Health Mrs Christina Yiannaki who represented the Minister of Health. Mrs Yiannaki addressed the audience and stated the philosophy of the Ministry regarding transparency as well relevant actions in process. Following, the member of the B.o.D. of CIF Dr Stelios Hadjichristofi presented his study based on evidence recorded internationally relating to cases of erosion and abuse of the health systems.
The honorary and keynote speaker was Mr. Alex Rothwell, Chief Executive Officer of the Counter Fraud Authority of NHS (National Health System). Mr. Rothwell is respected as an expert authority in issues of transparency and control, with a long background and expertise in the field. During his presentation he analysed the framework of the checks and controls system in the UK, as well as procedures followed in order to ensure as best as possible the efficient allocation of funds. He analysed various aspects that are under scrutiny, especially relating to deception practices recorded that they are called to combat on a daily basis. Mr Rothwell stressed the need to have a detailed controls system, but also an ongoing alertness and re-evaluation of the processes.
At the end, there was an extensive discussion with a series of questions from the audience towards Mr Rothwell and the panel. The audience consisted of institutions, organisations and medical professionals from a wider perspective, who raised sharp questions and expressed concerns based on their experiences from the Cyprus Health system.
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CIF committed to plan a round table discussion with the participation of all health stakeholders aiming in setting specific actions to combat corruption in the National Health System’s operation and turn into a viable and sustainable system.