Laboratory Medicine in Cyprus

Laboratory medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis of diseases based on laboratory testing of substances taken from the body. These substances include blood, urine, tissue, and other bodily fluids. It is also known as clinical pathology. 

From determining a patient’s risk for cardiovascular disease to measuring cholesterol levels, laboratory tests have many uses. Some common diseases that require laboratory tests are kidney disease, liver failure, and diabetes. There are numerous different types of laboratory tests, including, but are not limited to:

• Blood tests, such as complete blood count (CBC) and prothrombin time (PT).
• Urine tests or urinalysis.
• Genetic testing.
• Tumor markers.
• Fecal occult blood test.
• Culture test.

How Long Should I Stay in Cyprus?

You do not have to stay in Cyprus for any longer than you need to. However, you may be advised to stay for two days to two weeks, or until the results are ready. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend an appointment with your doctor who will explain the results to you. You and your doctor may also discuss the treatment plan, if necessary. In some cases, the results can be sent to you by mail or email so you can leave Cyprus immediately after your laboratory test and have your local doctor explain the results to you.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

There is typically no recovery time after a lab test. It is advisable that you refrain from doing any vigorous exercise and keep your bandage on for the recommended amount of time after a blood test (usually for around 30 minutes to an hour).

What Aftercare is Required?

No aftercare is needed after laboratory medicine, but in some cases, you may need regular checkups.

What's the Success Rate?

Laboratory medicine is constantly advancing and evolving. With new, cutting-edge equipment and continuous research, laboratory tests are now safer, more successful, and more accurate than before. This does not mean, however, that every lab test is accurate. Although very minimal, there is always a risk of misdiagnosis. 

Are there Alternatives?

In certain cases, your doctor may recommend imaging tests instead of lab tests. 

Laboratory Medicine in and around Cyprus

Cyprus is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea. The country is famous for its mineral wealth, splendid wines, dazzling beaches, and compelling culture. In addition, Cyprus is filled with classical ruins and century-old monasteries, and as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, it is also steeped in mythology. Due to its huge array of modern private medical centers equipped with excellent service, cutting-edge technology, and skilled doctors, Cyprus is also a thriving medical tourism destination. Foreign patients from all around the globe come to this country for a vast range of medical treatments, particularly bariatric surgery, cardiology, cosmetic and plastic surgery, and fertility treatments. Its spa and well-being resorts are also welcoming an increasing number of international medical tourists.

Popular Parts of Cyprus

The majority of tourists start their trip to Cyprus in Larnaca, it is the oldest city in Cyprus. It has a vast array of historical monuments, including Ayios Lazaros (the Church of Saint Lazarus), Stavrovouni Monastery, and Larnaca Medieval Castle. Besides its ancient buildings, Mackenzie Beach and Larnaca Marina are also popular among tourists. Not too far from Larnaca is Paphos, a charming city with exquisite natural beauty and all sorts of ancient ruins. The most popular attractions in this city include the Tombs of the Kings, the Old Town, Early Christian Basilica-St Paul’s Pillar, and Paphos UNESCO Archaeological Park. Nicosia, Cyprus’ capital, is also a popular destination.

Weather and Climate in Cyprus

Cyprus experiences a Mediterranean climate with four seasons and over 300 days of sunshine a year. The summer is long, warm, and dry, lasting from mid-May to mid-October. The winter starts in December and ends in February, bringing mild temperatures and more rain showers. Autumn and spring are short, but there is good weather.

Getting around in Cyprus

The main international gateway to Cyprus is Larnaca International airport. It serves international flights to many cities around Europe and the Middle East, including Kyiv, Abu Dhabi, London, and Moscow. In the south, the intercity bus system is reliable and great, but in the north, the bus services are often unreliable and do not seem to follow a timetable. Taxis are a safe and relatively inexpensive option. In the south, there are three types of taxi services: urban, trans-urban or interurban (shared and can be booked), and rural. In the north, taxis are only available in the main towns. Inside towns, buses are the best way to get around for those looking for a more affordable option. Taxis are more expensive, but they do offer more flexibility.

Tourist Visas in Cyprus

Nationals of EU countries, the United States, Australia, Canada, Britain, Iceland, Japan, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit and stay in Cyprus for up to 90 days. Other countries not listed in the visa-free agreement need to apply for a visa before entering Cyprus. It is best to consult the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the embassy to learn more about visa requirements. 

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The euro (€) has been the official currency of Cyprus since 1 January 2008. The exchange rate from €1 is approximately US$1.17.​​​​​​
2. Money & Payments: It is easy to find reliable ATMs in large towns and tourist areas. Major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in larger restaurants, shops, and hotels. However, if you plan to go to smaller towns or villages, it is best to ensure you have cash. Tipping is expected most of the time. Tip at least 10% of the bill, and at least 5% or round up to the nearest euro for taxi drivers.
3. Local Language: Around 80% of Cypriots speak Greek as their first language, while Turkish is spoken by 10% of the population. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: The main religion of Cyprus is Greek Orthodox, but Islam is the most prominent religion in the north.
5. Public holidays: Some of the most celebrated holidays in Cyprus include Ohi Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Epiphany, Clean Monday, Cyprus National Day, and Independence Day.