The Bulgarian Optometrists Union (BOU) is taking decisive action against legal restrictions that threaten the professional realization of higher education specialists in the field of eye optics. The organization has initiated a large-scale campaign to amend Article 26a of the Health Act, which currently limits the powers of optometrists.
In an officially distributed statement, experts highlight the paradoxical situation where the state invests in the training of highly qualified specialists but simultaneously prohibits them from practicing. Higher education institutions – Sofia University and Medical University-Varna, have been preparing professionals according to internationally recognized standards for over three decades.
A key problem is the draft of a new Medical Standard for Eye Diseases, which proposes that optometry masters be deprived of the right to independently determine refractive deviations. The document, published for public discussion on the Strategy portal, has provoked a sharp reaction from the professional community.
Statistical data presented by BOU are eloquent: around 3 million Bulgarian citizens use glasses, which requires over 5,000 examinations daily. The paradox is deepened by the fact that out of 1,600 optics stores, more than 1,400 lack an eye doctor, which further burdens the healthcare system.
The organization declares a categorical readiness to defend the interests of its members through all possible legal mechanisms – including appealing to the Supreme Administrative Court and addressing European institutions. They define the current restrictions as discriminatory and legally unjustified.
A symbolic expression of professional solidarity was the third congress of the National Association of Optics, held in March, where over 250 specialists demonstrated a unified position. BOU representatives emphasized the need to rethink the regulatory framework in the interest of patients and the quality of health services.
The battle of optometrists continues – they insist on recognition of their professional competence and the opportunity to fully contribute to Bulgarian healthcare.