The University of Cyprus welcomes and supports the intention of the Ministry of Health to establish a University Neurology Clinic at Nicosia General Hospital, headed by the Professor of Neurology at the Medical School of the University of Cyprus.
The creation of the first Neurological clinic in a state hospital in Cyprus will upgrade the health services provided and will cover a huge gap in the treatment of patients with neurological diseases both acute and chronic. Particular mention should be made of the complete absence of a Stroke Unit. Multiple studies have shown that: (1) hospitalization in Stroke Units significantly reduces death rates and residual disability; and (2) is cost-effective for national health systems. It is important to emphasize that cardiovascular disease (myocardial infarction and stroke) is the first cause of death in Cyprus while stroke is a major cause of disability (Global Burden of Diseases 2018).
Cyprus, unfortunately, is the only European country with no Neurological Clinic. The University of Cyprus, recognizing this urgent need and seeking to fulfil its obligations towards Cypriot society, has set as a priority the attraction of high-level and internationally recognized professors who will be able to staff the University Neurology Clinic.
The Medical School of the University of Cyprus, in addition to excellence in the education of young doctors and research, is able to contribute to the upgrading of the state medical services provided, especially in areas where there are deficiencies. In this context, the University of Cyprus, and in particular the Medical School will assist in this effort paid by the Ministry of Health.