Modernization of the National Health Map: Digitalization for Real-Time Needs Tracking Ahead

Bulgaria's National Health Map is preparing for a large-scale update and a transition to a digital format. This step is necessary to ensure up-to-date information regarding the needs for medical assistance in the country, stated Minister of Health Katya Ivkova during a visit to Silistra.

According to Minister Ivkova, the current document was prepared in 2018 and no longer reflects the real picture of the health system. She emphasized that a static table, which has not been changed for six years, cannot be an effective management tool. The new approach aims to transform the map into a dynamic tool that allows for the tracking of medical service needs in real time.

"Digitalization will allow for more accurate planning of necessary medical activities at the regional and local levels," the Minister noted. She added that the availability of accurate data is critically important when making decisions for the development of the health system and in the distribution of state resources.

The update process will begin after the adoption of the state budget. Discussions with system integrators are forthcoming to support the technical implementation of the digital transformation.

In the context of healthcare facility financing, the Minister reminded that the clinical pathway payment mechanism must be unified. She explained that, according to EU free competition rules, both state, municipal, and private hospitals are entitled to public funding and can generate additional regulated income.