The Patients’ Rights Observatory has reported a significant increase in complaints regarding medical negligence, with 57 cases logged in September alone. This surge marks one of the highest monthly totals since the observatory’s establishment, just shy of the record 61 complaints received in January 2025.
Many of the recent complaints highlight distressing incidents involving patient deaths, inadequate care, and alarming lapses in communication within healthcare settings. Families have begun approaching authorities, seeking formal investigations into these troubling cases.
Medical negligence: Concerning Patterns Emerge
Reports from citizens indicate a worrying trend of long waits in accident and emergency (A&E) departments, with patients often left without necessary updates about their health. Instances of neglect have been noted both in A&E units and hospital wards, leading to complications for patients. Surgical interventions have also been called into question, with some patients facing worsened conditions or unnecessary procedures.
Distressing Accounts from Families
In one particularly harrowing case, an elderly patient died while hospitalised, with the family alleging that a series of care failures contributed to the tragedy. They reported extended delays in receiving medical attention upon arrival at A&E and inadequate treatment for infections during the hospital stay. The letter detailing these grievances was shared by the Federation of Patient Associations of Cyprus (CyFPA/OSAK), which has been vocal about the need for accountability in such matters.
Another complaint involved a patient who, after being told his post-operative recovery was progressing normally, later died. An autopsy was conducted, but the family is now grappling with delays in receiving crucial results, further compounding their distress.
Underestimation of Symptoms
Several citizens have come forward with stories of misdiagnosis and inadequate assessments, particularly in A&E departments. One patient exhibited serious symptoms that were misinterpreted as psychological issues, leading to a dangerous delay in receiving appropriate medical care. The next day, doctors discovered a severe complication that had already caused irreversible damage, necessitating urgent surgery.
Alarming Surgical Mishaps
Another complaint raised concerns regarding a surgical procedure that deviated significantly from what was described to the patient. Initially assured that the operation would be minimally invasive, the patient experienced a lengthy procedure with a large incision, which ultimately did not resolve the underlying issue. Contradictory information from the surgeon about the need for a follow-up surgery has left the patient and family confused and frustrated, especially after a second opinion revealed no improvement.
Failures in Communication and Care
Reports of poor communication during hospitalisation are also prevalent. One family described how their elderly relative faced numerous challenges, including a lack of updates about transfers to other wards, neglect of personal hygiene, and chaotic discharge procedures. They highlighted serious shortcomings in care that they believe contributed to a negative outcome.
Seeking Accountability
The Patients’ Rights Observatory does not directly investigate allegations of medical negligence but records such complaints and directs citizens to the appropriate authorities. However, many individuals express reluctance to lodge formal complaints, fearing that their grievances will not lead to meaningful change.
The data collected by the observatory reflects a pressing need for improvements within the healthcare system. As complaints continue to rise, the call for greater accountability and better patient care becomes more urgent.
