PM Üstel: Bigger Steps in Healthcare to Be Taken in 2025

Prime Minister Ünal Üstel visited Pembe Köşk Psychiatric Hospital, which provides treatment for drug, alcohol, smoking, gambling, and eating addictions, to assess the progress in the fight against addiction.

During his visit, Üstel stressed that addiction is a growing global issue and that drug traffickers pose a serious threat worldwide. He underscored the government's commitment to protecting young people from these dangers by taking all necessary precautions.

Accompanied by Minister of Health Hakan Dinçyürek, Üstel received a briefing on the hospital’s treatment processes and operations from Chief Physician Prof. Dr. Mehmet Çakıcı. The visit also included discussions with hospital officials and healthcare staff on future steps in combating addiction.

"We Attach Great Importance to Combating Addiction"

Following his visit, Üstel emphasized the government’s strong commitment to addressing addiction, highlighting the importance of both preventive and treatment measures.

He noted that past periods of political instability, the pandemic, and subsequent global economic crises had led to accumulated challenges in the country. However, since taking office in 2022, his administration has prioritized addressing the public’s needs, particularly by completing unfinished healthcare projects and launching new initiatives.

"Bigger Steps in Healthcare to Be Taken in 2025"

Focusing on healthcare reforms, Üstel announced that even greater steps would be taken in 2025.

He reiterated that despite strict precautions, drug traffickers continue to find new ways to operate, causing harm to society. In addition to combating drug addiction, he pointed out the need for a dedicated treatment center for alcohol addiction.

Üstel emphasized that the fight against addiction cannot be limited to preventive measures alone and that treatment processes play a crucial role.

"We Closely Follow Pembe Köşk’s Work in This Field"

Praising Pembe Köşk Psychiatric Hospital's contributions, Üstel noted that the facility serves not only TRNC citizens but also patients from various countries, enhancing both the national economy and international recognition of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

"All Necessary Measures Taken Against Threats"

Üstel stated that the government is determined to protect young people from drug-related dangers and has intensified security checks at border crossings, particularly against threats originating from South Cyprus. He reaffirmed that efforts to combat addiction will continue with increased investment.

"A More Modern and Comprehensive Treatment Center with the AMATEM Facility"

One of the most critical steps in addiction treatment, according to Üstel, will be the completion of the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment and Research Center (AMATEM) facility. He revealed that the project has been included in the 2025 budget, ensuring the establishment of a modern and comprehensive treatment center.

Describing Pembe Köşk as an expanding and vital healthcare institution, Üstel expressed his appreciation for the hospital’s work and thanked its management and staff.

He also emphasized the importance of public-private cooperation in combating addiction and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring a healthy future for the younger generation.

Health Minister Dinçyürek: “We Have Developed Short, Medium, and Long-Term Plans”

Health Minister Hakan Dinçyürek stated that since taking office, Prime Minister Ünal Üstel has prioritized eliminating deficiencies in addiction treatment services. He explained that short, medium, and long-term plans have been developed and implemented accordingly.

Treatment Centers and Strategic Planning

One of the fastest short-term measures was ensuring that existing addicts had access to treatment facilities. Under a protocol with Pembe Köşk Psychiatric Hospital, patients have been receiving treatment there.

Dinçyürek noted that patients approved by the Health Board of Barış Mental and Neurological Diseases Hospital are referred to Pembe Köşk, where expert doctors regularly monitor their treatment and report on their progress.

As part of medium-term plans, a 16-bed AMATEM unit was established within Barış Mental and Neurological Diseases Hospital. This unit was activated through necessary renovations and staffing arrangements.

For long-term solutions, Dinçyürek highlighted the completion of the AMATEM facility, a project that had been left unfinished for years. He announced that 70 million TL has been allocated in the 2025 budget for this purpose.

"Completion of the AMATEM Facility Will Mark a Major Milestone in Addiction Treatment"

Dinçyürek stated that the final preparations for the project are underway, with the tender process set to begin soon. Once completed, the AMATEM facility will represent a significant breakthrough in addiction treatment.

He also emphasized that fighting drug addiction requires more than just treatment, noting that awareness campaigns, preventive measures, rehabilitation programs, vocational training, and social reintegration efforts must all be part of a comprehensive approach.

Dinçyürek reassured the public that the Health Ministry is fully committed to addressing these responsibilities efficiently and effectively, underscoring that the fight against addiction is a long-term endeavor requiring continuous effort and determination.