National Brain Health Plan: Strategic Framework

The importance of building a sustainable framework in the field of brain health was emphasized by the Minister of Health, Assoc. Prof. Silvi Kirilov, at the opening of a round table dedicated to the National Plan for Brain Diseases. The discussion, titled "National Plan for Brain Diseases – strategic framework and expert solutions", is organized by the "Council for Brain Health" foundation in partnership with the Bulgarian Medical Association and the Sofia Medical College.

The atmosphere in the hall foretold a serious discussion. The gathered experts, medics, and representatives of health institutions were ready to engage in a discussion of important issues.

Minister Kirilov highlighted the need to recognize the importance of coordinated actions, involving all involved institutions, for the creation of this sustainable framework. He emphasized that medicine provides more and more opportunities for prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation in support of patients. "Building a national plan is a step in this direction. I am confident that today's decisions will turn into real actions tomorrow," the minister also said.

The initiative to create this national plan began a year ago, recalled Prof. Nikolay Gabrovski, chairman of the "Council for Brain Health". He explained that the need for such a plan is dictated by the belief that brain-related diseases are underestimated in the healthcare system. Prof. Gabrovski added that these diseases represent a growing problem in Europe, mainly due to the aging population. The draft plan was developed with the assistance of a wide range of specialists, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and neurosurgeons.

Assoc. Prof. Petko Stefanovski, manager of NHIF (National Health Insurance Fund), emphasized the Fund's commitment to this important medico-social problem. The aim is to help the affected people feel useful and successful.

Dr. Nikolay Branzalov, chairman of the Bulgarian Medical Association, defined the draft plan as a strategic framework and a set of expert solutions. He expressed confidence that the efforts of leading specialists will lay the foundations of a modern and effective approach, combining scientific potential, clinical experience, and policies for the prevention of brain diseases.

Dr. Asen Medzhidiev, chairman of the Sofia Medical College, emphasized that the strategic framework of the plan is a challenge aimed at improving health policies, increasing the quality of healthcare, and ensuring better access for patients. He added that effective strategies and solutions are to be outlined, including the use of new technologies, which significantly improve the quality of medical services.

Prof. Gabrovski raised the issue of the shortage of medical staff. He mentioned that around 32 thousand doctors work in the country, for whose work about 65 thousand nurses are needed. Currently, the number of nurses is only 22 thousand. Prof. Gabrovski emphasized that this shortage poses a direct threat to the functioning of the healthcare system.