The Minister of Health, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Silvi Kirilov, initiated a large-scale review of the regulatory framework related to specializations in the medical system. During the first meeting of the specially formed working group, key areas for transforming the existing model were outlined.
Among the priority issues is the introduction of a centralized exam for trainees - a mechanism that was previously abolished at the request of professional organizations. Minister Kirilov emphasized the need for an objective and transparent approach to personnel selection, explicitly noting that all possible options will be analyzed.
The working group also focused on the financial conditions for trainees. Specifically, Article 15, Paragraph 3 of the Ordinance, regulating the minimum wage, was discussed. The leadership of the health ministry committed to reviewing the current provisions jointly with representatives of employers' organizations.
Another significant point is the creation of a digital platform for signals, which will guarantee the protection of the rights of medical specialists in training. Deputy Minister Dr. Boyko Penkov emphasized that systematic control over the quality of the training process will be carried out.
The Bulgarian Medical Association took on an additional commitment to negotiate the National Framework Agreement, which will allow trainees to perform medical activities under the methodological guidance of qualified doctors.
The working group includes representatives of all leading professional organizations - the Bulgarian Medical Association, Bulgarian Dental Association, Bulgarian Pharmaceutical Association, Bulgarian Association of Healthcare Professionals, and others.
Additional working meetings with rectors of medical universities, faculty deans, and industry employers' organizations are upcoming. The goal is to achieve a maximally consensual solution that addresses contemporary challenges in medical education.
The working group's schedule provides for finalizing discussions by the end of the current month, which creates real prerequisites for imminent regulatory changes in the specialization system.