Minister Ivkova Seeks Sustainable Model for Prevention and Healthcare

The Minister of Health, Katya Ivkova, stated that the Bulgarian healthcare system must gradually transition from a model focused primarily on the treatment of diseases to a stronger focus on prophylaxis, early prevention, and health promotion.

This took place during a series of meetings with professional and hospital organizations, societies, and associations in the sector, as part of the Ministry of Health’s initiative for active dialogue on key challenges facing the system, the ministry reported.

Following discussions with the Bulgarian Medical Association, representatives of the Bulgarian Association of Health Professionals and the Bulgarian Union of Physician Assistants and Feldsher-Medics were invited to the Ministry of Health.

During the meeting with the BAHP, the patronage care model adopted by the caretaker government was discussed, as well as the need for clear regulation regarding the provision of health and social services in a home environment.

Minister Ivkova emphasized that she supports the development of patronage care, but before its actual implementation, a detailed analysis of the prescribed activities, financial parameters, and organizational implementation must be conducted.

“For me and my team, any policy aimed at health promotion, prophylaxis, and early prevention is an investment in a more sustainable healthcare system. Bulgarian healthcare must gradually move from a model focused primarily on illness to a model that places a much stronger emphasis on health and human care before a disease develops,” stated Ivkova.

A similar emphasis was placed during the meeting with the Bulgarian Union of Physician Assistants and Feldsher-Medics, who presented a concept for regulating the professional activities of physician assistants and their better integration into the healthcare system.

Opportunities for regulatory changes were discussed, as well as the need for a clearer definition of the powers of physician assistants and feldsher-medics.

Minister Ivkova committed to reviewing the submitted proposals in detail and emphasized that the dialogue with professional organizations will continue.

Following the individual meetings, the Ministry of Health plans a general discussion on the main priorities and the future development of the healthcare system.