If you’re an asylum seeker and get sick…
There are many types of sicknesses. Some require require a visit to the Emergency Room. Emergency rooms are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but can have a long wait time because they treat the most serious cases first. But many sicknesses should be treated at a Medical Center. If possible, it’s better to see a doctor at a Medical Center because you can make an appointment and shouldn’t have to wait for hours.
Emergencies
Generally, emergencies include:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Slurred speech
- Vision problems, such as double vision or loss of vision
- Severe dizziness
- Broken bones or dislocated joints
- Head injuries, loss of consciousness, fainting, confusion, or seizures
- Burns with blisters
- Severe abdominal pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Larger cuts that may require stitches
- Fever over 39 degrees or fever with a rash
- Poisoning
- Mental health crisis
In case of an emergency, go to the Accidents and Emergency Department (A&E) in the General Hospital in your city.
Other Illnesses
If you are sick, but it’s not an emergency, book an appointment with a pathologist in the Medical Center nearest your home. You can call or book online. Either way, you will need to have your Confirmation Letter and your ARC ready. You will also have to spell your name and surname and give your date of birth.
- If you’re in Nicosia and wish to call, click on one of the links here for a list of Medical Centers in your language: English | French | Arabic
- If you’re outside Nicosia or would like to book an appointment online, click here for a quick tutorial on how to find your local Medical Center and book an appointment, or go directly to the State Healthcare Services Organization’s website
For Your Appointment:
When you go the Medical Center, you will have to show your medical card or confirmation letter (if you are in Cyprus for less than one year).
If the doctor prescribes medication, you will need a medical booklet that you can receive at the Medical Center or at the General Hospital. Ask the receptionist for directions and/or assistance.
Medical booklet sample:
Most medications can be collected from the General Hospital pharmacy, free of charge.
Get well soon!!!!