Fake health booklets: Medical fraud scheme exposed on the coast

Investigation into the misuse of personal health booklets

In 2026, a report regarding the issuance of fake personal health booklets was received by the Regional Health Inspectorate (RZI) in Varna, which led to the initiation of pre-trial proceedings. The information was confirmed by Health Minister Katya Ivkova during parliamentary oversight.

Member of Parliament Georgi Georgiev from "Vazrazhdane" stated that fictitious medical examinations have become a profitable business involving both general practitioners and laboratories.

How does the scheme work according to the reports?

• Workers along the Black Sea coast receive booklets without undergoing real medical examinations.
• The price of the service varies around 10-15 euros per person.
• There is no physical presence during the testing process.

Proposals to curb fraud

Members of Parliament propose increased control through:

• Checking the dates of laboratory tests for illogical coincidences.
• Mandatory entry of examinations into the National Health Information System (NZIS).
• Comparison between the date of commencement of employment and the date of the medical examination.

Minister Ivkova called for specific reports to be submitted to the Ministry of Health so that effective on-site inspections can be carried out.