RESUMO
Until recently, there was no universal health system in Cyprus. Health care was provided by two uncoordinated subsystems, which led to inefficiencies. While around 75% of the population was entitled to health care in public facilities, financed by general taxation, many still opted for private health care and paid out of pocket. As a result, the rate of out-of-pocket expenditure in Cyprus is among the highest in the European Union (EU), exceeding 45% of total health spending, compared to an EU28 average of 22% in 2016. Furthermore, the dual system had no links between public and private providers to ensure the continuity of care. This briefing addresses SDG 3 (good health and well-being), target 3.8 (achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all) and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities). It also addresses strategic direction 5 of the WHO “Roadmap to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, building on Health 2020” due to its focus on strengthening health systems for universal health coverage.
