Cabinet approves extension to state health service funding

Cabinet on Wednesday approved a bill addressing deficits of the state health services (Okypy), granting them a one-year extension.

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the initial law specified the state would cover any Okypy deficits for the first five years of its operation.

That would be between June 1, 2019 and May 31, 2024.

The latest bill approved on Wednesday, extends the provision until May 31, 2025.

Letymbiotis said this ensures the smooth operation of the healthcare system, taking into account that Okypy is one of the most important health service provider.

Additionally, Okypy was called to support the government during the Covid-19 pandemic, he added.

The bill will head to plenum on Thursday before its operations are suspended ahead of the upcoming elections.