15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Bulgaria

"There are doctors clinics for general health issues that are easy to use as (for instance) if you need an ex-ray for a problem, it is done there within minutes and you then see the doctor again and the results and treatments are discussed. There is no need to book an appointment and the total cost of a visit such as this is approximately 40 Bulgarian Lev to include the ex-ray. Medication is then prescribed and it is very affordable compared with the UK," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.

"Bulgaria has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of treatments and services, including general medicine, surgery, dentistry, and specialized care. The quality of care is generally good, and the cost of medical services is relatively low compared to other European countries. In addition, Bulgaria has a number of private medical facilities that offer more advanced treatments and services at a higher cost," said one expat living in Bulgaria.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bulgaria can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, but they can provide access to a wider range of services and better quality care. Additionally, some employers may offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," mentioned one expat in Bulgaria.

"There are 2 hospitals that I am aware of in Pleven where we shop, and one is military and the other public. Both are helpful, efficient and affordable, also attention is immediate with very little waiting time," remarked one expat in Bulgaria.

"In Bulgaria, emergency services are provided by the Bulgarian Red Cross and the Bulgarian Ministry of Health. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112, the national emergency number. The Bulgarian Red Cross also provides emergency medical services, and you can call them at +359 2 981 11 11," remarked one expat living in Bulgaria.

"I have not done this so can't comment, I do understand that the quality of service is good, and that the family members of a patient are to help in taking care of the patient (where applicable( with feeding and general care. Otherwise, I understand that the quality of care is varied, but in general, good," commented one expat who moved to Bulgaria.

"Bulgaria's capital city, Sofia, is home to some of the country's best medical specialists. Other cities with a wide selection of medical specialists include Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas. Additionally, the Black Sea resort towns of Golden Sands and Sunny Beach are known for their excellent medical facilities and specialists," said one expat.

"Yes, all medicines are available either directly from the chemist for deregulated medicines, or by prescription which can be obtained from the doctors clinic for under 5 Bulgarian Lev's. We need to travel about 18 kilometers to Pleven from where we live, but the rest is easy. In the UK, getting an appointment is not easy and you might have to wait a week or two, whereas in Bulgaria, you just go and receive attention right away without any fuss," wrote one expat.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Bulgaria. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, with a valid prescription from a doctor. Some medications may require special authorization from the Bulgarian Ministry of Health. In addition, some medications may be available over the counter without a prescription," commented one expat who moved to Bulgaria.

"Medical facilities and medical care in Bulgaria are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern medical equipment and highly trained medical professionals. Bulgaria also has a number of specialized medical centers and hospitals that provide excellent care for a variety of medical conditions. In addition, the cost of medical care in Bulgaria is generally lower than in many other European countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality medical care at an affordable price," wrote one expat.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Bulgaria, you will have access to public healthcare. The quality of care is generally good, with a wide range of services available. The healthcare system is based on a national health insurance scheme, which covers most medical expenses. The cost of healthcare is relatively low compared to other European countries, and the waiting times for appointments are usually short," commented one expat living in Bulgaria.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Bulgaria. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the introduction of a national health insurance system, the introduction of a national health information system, and the introduction of a national health emergency response system. The healthcare system has also been strained due to the increased demand for medical services, with hospitals and clinics struggling to cope with the influx of patients. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system in Bulgaria has been able to provide quality care to those in need," mentioned one expat in Bulgaria.