Minister Okoliyski: We are detecting atypical hospitalizations and limiting unregulated spending

The caretaker Minister of Health, Assoc. Prof. Mikhail Okoliyski, announced that audits are being conducted in medical facilities and other structures of the healthcare system, with non-systemic results already being detected in the National Health Information System. These include atypical hospitalizations and the over-prescribing of medications.

According to him, measures are being taken to curb these practices, including through digitalization and stricter control. “We will make every effort to adequately channel the most expensive medicines, including off-label therapies, which until now have lacked sufficient traceability,” he told BNT.

The Minister emphasized that no changes in the management of medical facilities are currently planned. “I have never replaced directors and I will not do so,” Okoliyski stated, dismissing such claims as speculation.

He noted that a significant part of his team’s work is focused on “extinguishing fires” and compensating for the lack of effective control within the system. In his words, stricter oversight is needed, similar to that in other European countries.

Regarding the National Children’s Hospital, the Minister expressed criticism over the project’s delay. “Where is the business plan, where is the project, and when will actual construction begin?” he asked, emphasizing that the public expects concrete results.

Okoliyski also commented on the measles situation in Byala Slatina, assuring that the spread is currently limited. However, he noted that 95% of the infected children are unvaccinated, indicating a decline in vaccination coverage. He highlighted the role of health mediators in increasing trust in immunizations.