Background information

Written records, especially from monasteries, record different types of traditional medicine and herbal preparations that were practised from the Middle Ages through the 19^th century in Cyprus. Most traditional forms of medicine involve mixing herbs and abiding by certain behavioural rules promoting healthy diets and habits. Since British colonization, allopathic doctors have provided health services.

Statistics

Although most patients use allopathic medicine, some consult homeopaths and other complementary/alternative medical practitioners. Only a few allopathic doctors practice homeopathy, acupuncture, or other forms of complementary/alternative medicine. There are fewer than 10 complementary/alternative medical practitioners who are not also allopathic doctors. These practitioners offer curative courses focused on using relaxation techniques or herbs to alleviate stress or stop smoking.

Regulatory situation

Only allopathic doctors can provide medical treatment in Cyprus. It is a criminal offence for others to practise medicine or give medications. There is no official recognition of any kind of traditional or complementary/alternative medicine other than chiropractic. Again except for chiropractic, there are no national policies regulating traditional or complementary/alternative medicine, nor have traditional or complementary/alternative medicine been integrated with allopathic medicine.

A compulsory registration scheme for chiropractors was introduced in Cyprus in 1991 (161). Registration is limited to persons holding a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate. It is a criminal offence to practise chiropractic without being registered.

Education and training

There are no official training courses in traditional or complementary/alternative medicine.

Insurance coverage

No national or private health care insurance covers traditional or complementary/alternative medicine. Traditional medicine is not included in the proposed National Health Insurance Scheme.