The Council of Ministers on Wednesday approved a bill providing the first legal framework for palliative care in Cyprus.

“This initiative fills a significant legislative gap and ensures that patients with serious and life-threatening illnesses – together with their families – will receive quality, safe and humane care,” Health Minister Michael Damianos said.

According to Damianos, the government is planning to establish a National Palliative Care Council including patients and experts to ensure the quality and coordination of palliative care services.

“No Palliative Care Centre – within or outside Gesy – will operate without a licence and strict supervision from the competent authority, which is the health ministry,” the minister said.

“Each patient will have an individualised care plan, which will be developed with the patient, family and caregivers. This plan also includes end-of-life support measures, even after death, with care for the family and caregivers,” he emphasised.

Palliative services would include several types of care including home care, nursing homes, day care units and hospitals, Damianos said, adding that hospitals which already provided palliative care would have to apply for licensing within the first six months after the bill comes into force.

The bill will have to go before the House for approval.