"Future in Bulgaria": Changes to Ordinance 1 on Specializations Threaten Young Doctors

The “Future in Bulgaria” Initiative Committee has submitted a position paper to the Minister of Health, categorically objecting to the proposed amendments to Ordinance No. 1 on specializations, which have been published for public consultation.

The committee emphasizes that the proposed changes are “formal, do not lead to real change, and could worsen the already dire state of healthcare.” Their primary objection is against the removal of the text in Art. 15, Para. 3, which establishes a minimum salary threshold for medical residents. Instead, the young doctors are demanding the introduction of a legally guaranteed dignified wage—no less than 150% of the average salary according to the National Statistical Institute (NSI).

The position paper also raises questions regarding other planned changes—the participation of a Regional Health Inspectorate (RHI) employee in competition committees, the increase in required experience for residency supervisors from three to five years, the creation of an online platform for reporting grievances, and the conducting of annual surveys. According to the committee, these measures do not provide more transparency or protection for young doctors, but could instead lead to new dependencies and abuses.

“The lack of adequate mechanisms and real protection for residents deepens the crisis and increases the risk of an even greater staffing shortage in healthcare. The Ministry’s approach places the entire system at greater risk,” writes “Future in Bulgaria.”

The public consultation period for the proposed changes is one month.