About 700 war-disabled lost free access to health care following the introduction of the national health scheme (Gesy), MPs heard on Tuesday.

Speaking at the House refugee committee, the head of the organisation for rehabilitation of disabled persons and war victims Giorgos Groutides asked for the amendment of the law to recognise the post-traumatic injuries of disabled people after the 1974 war and for the state to fully cover their medical care.

Those injured at war used to have free medical care. But with the introduction of Gesy must now pay for certain medicines, Groutides said.

He added that war victims might receive a pension of €500 to €600 while medicines might amount to €80 with the price constantly increasing.

People with disabilities are allowed a 20 per cent discount from state organisations such as telecommunications authority (Cyta) and the electricity authority (EAC), while those who are disabled due to the war must present a certificate by their community leader to be recognised, it was added.

Speaking at the committee, ruling party Disy MP Onoufrios Koullas said the needs of people who were injured in the war increase over time as they grow older.

The house refugee committee, in collaboration with the labour and finance ministries is seeking solutions to support the specific group of people, Koullas added.