„Continuing the Change“ has submitted a bill to amend and supplement the Law on Medical Institutions, aimed at guaranteeing decent remuneration for young doctors and medical specialists in medical institutions, where over 50% of the income comes from the NHIF, the state or municipal budget.
The changes are based on the proposals of young doctors, presented to the deputies at a round table in parliament last week. In order for the law to be adopted before the parliamentary vacation, today was the deadline for submission.
The aim of the proposals is to counteract the deepening crisis in Bulgarian healthcare, caused by the shortage and emigration of medical personnel. Low pay levels, lack of financial security and opaque management of remuneration are among the leading reasons for the outflow of professionals from the healthcare sector.
With the proposed changes, “Continuing the Change“ introduces legally regulated minimum remuneration for doctors, nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals working in healthcare facilities financed mainly by the budget and the NHIF. Among the main proposals are:
Minimum basic salary for doctors without a specialty – not less than 150% of the average gross salary for the country;
For nurses and related specialists – not less than 125% of the average salary;
Additional remuneration for continuing education and acquired qualifications;
Minimum pay for night work;
A ceiling for the difference between the lowest and highest remuneration in hospitals - no more than 10:1.
Control over the implementation of these requirements will be entrusted to the Executive Agency “Medical Supervision“, which will be able to impose sanctions, including fines and termination of contracts with the NHIF in case of systemic violations.
The draft law provides for a clear link between public funding and the implementation of obligations towards medical personnel. In this way, a mechanism is introduced that protects the work of healthcare professionals and encourages hospitals to comply with fair remuneration standards.
"„We Continue the Change“ are categorical that if we want to keep young doctors in the country and guarantee quality and accessible healthcare services for all citizens, it is high time for the state to take responsibility for their decent pay.
The expected results of the implementation of the bill are higher motivation of medical staff, better quality of healthcare, reduction of emigration and restoration of trust in the public healthcare system," the party states.