Minister of Health Katya Ivkova has assured that there is no cause for concern regarding the expiration dates of the reagents for the screening tests purchased back at the end of 2025. She clarified that for a certain portion of them, the shelf life extends until April 2027, while for the majority of the stock, the period lasts until 2029. According to the Minister, this provides fully sufficient time for all purchased tests to be utilized.
The comment was made in connection with the signing of the National Framework Agreement for medical activities for the 2026–2028 period between the National Health Insurance Fund and the Bulgarian Medical Association. In response to a question regarding the more than one-year delay of the tests, Ivkova emphasized that despite initial difficulties and the lack of logistical organization, the ministry has done what is necessary to ensure the implementation of screening for cervical cancer and colorectal cancer.
The Minister explained that time was needed for the precise organization of logistics and to investigate where in the country the necessary equipment for laboratory tests is available, as well as where capacity exists to conduct the specific types of screening. "We have done the impossible to carry out both types of screening," Ivkova stated firmly. The goal of these efforts is for the process to be structured in such a way that the tests are actually used in specialized laboratories and are accessible to the citizens eligible for the screenings.
In conclusion, the Minister of Health confirmed that current and specific information will be provided very soon regarding where citizens will be able to have their screening tests for cervical cancer and colorectal cancer done.