Abstract
Introduction: The Emergency Department (ED) is the heart of every modern hospital and at all times must provide medical and nursing emergency care, accepting large numbers of patient. However, in many cases patient makes inappropriate use of this department.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the various factors, which influence the operation of the ED in Limassol General Hospital, and to pinpoint the weaknesses of Primary Health Care in Cyprus.
Methods: This was a quantitative research, which was conducted in Cyprus between the months of March and May of the year 2016. An analogue random sampling carried out the sampling of the quantitative research and the research tool used was the Hospital Urgencies Appropriateness Protocol (HUAP). The sample of the study consisted of 501 patients who visited the Emergency Departments.
Results: Inappropriately visit the survey found 29,3% of the ED patients. Of these, 21,7% responded that “They do not trust PHC doctors”, 47,6% have not been assigned to a PHC practitioner, and 54,4% are staying close to the hospital or believe they will receive better and faster services. 38,1% responded that they are on waiting lists for imaging examinations, for examination by a specialist, and waiting lists for surgical procedures.
Conclusion: This research suggests that ED in Limassol General Hospital are unable to respond fully to the needs of their patients because of the ineffective operation of Primary Health Care in Cyprus. It is essential to implement «Healthy» Health Systems with full population coverage, ease of access and establish strong Primary Health Care systems that will inspire confidence in citizens.
