Day of the Bulgarian Doctor: "Doctor of the Year" Award and News

On a solemn day, dedicated to honoring St. John of Rila the Wonderworker, Bulgaria also celebrates the Day of the Bulgarian Physician. This date was chosen not by chance – as the patron saint of physicians, St. John of Rila embodies the compassion and dedication that are at the heart of the medical profession. Since 1996, when the Bulgarian Medical Association (BMA) designated this date, Bulgarian society has expressed its gratitude and recognition to the people who have dedicated their lives to caring for health.

Tomorrow, during an official ceremony, the prestigious award "Physician of the Year 2025" will be presented. The ceremony, likely filled with emotion and pride, will be the culmination of a year's efforts and achievements in medicine. Last year, Prof. Maria Tokmakova was honored with this honor, receiving the "Physician of the Year 2024" award. In her speech, reflecting the importance of the profession, Prof. Tokmakova urged young doctors to stay in Bulgaria – an appeal that emphasizes the importance of retaining qualified medical specialists in the country.

Data from the National Health Information System, provided by the professional organization, show that there are a total of 34,247 doctors in Bulgaria. Of these, 23,846 are specialists. The analysis of this data reveals the diversity of medical specialties in the country. The largest number of specialists are in the field of "Internal Medicine" – 4366, which highlights their key role in diagnosis and treatment. Interestingly, the fewest specialists – only one – are in the field of "Medical Pedagogy". General practitioners number 3741, with the fewest – 42 – practicing in the Targovishte region.

Days ago, the Bulgarian Medical Association made important proposals for legislative changes. These proposals have been developed to reflect the real needs and challenges that doctors face in their daily work. The BMA emphasizes that these legislative changes are fundamental to the improvement of the healthcare system. The aim is to improve working conditions for doctors and to improve the quality of medical care for patients.

In the resort complex "Sts. Constantine and Helena" from October 31 to November 2, the Seventh Congress of the Bulgarian Medical Association will be held. This year's theme is "Healthcare Policies". The forum will have international participation, which testifies to its importance and scope. Participants will discuss key topics such as the legal and ethical aspects of healthcare, the importance of continuing medical education, as well as complex issues of transplants and organ donation. The congress will also examine the organization and management of the healthcare system both in a professional and institutional context.