Saddened by the fact that medicines in Cyprus are often seen as a consumer product  and not a commodity, KEFEA warns that Cypriot patients’ access to qualitative  healthcare could be placed at risk through incorrect actions and practices. It refers  specifically to a number of innovative medicines that are available in other European  countries, but are completely absent from state hospitals in Cyprus due to outdated  procedures followed by the state in purchasing them. In fact, it is calling on the Audit  Office to examine this matter, which is effectively hindering patients’ access to new,  effective treatments, with the same zeal.

KEFEA remains a firm supporter of implementing the NHS, as it feels this will set  aside these inequalities and allow the introduction of innovative medicines at fair  prices. Concluding, it expresses concern over information claiming the proposed NHS  may not be implemented or might be delayed.

KEFEA was established in 2006 and represents the innovative pharmaceutical  industry in Cyprus. KEFEA’s members are the companies GSK, Lilly, MSD, Novartis,  Pfizer, Sanofi and Amgen Hellas. Its mission is to provide Cypriots with innovative  medicines. Among its objectives are to ensure uninterrupted access to medicines in the Cyprus market, provide qualitative healthcare, offer scientific educational  information on diseases and treatments to healthcare providers, and ensure that  European objectives regarding high healthcare standards are implemented in Cyprus.