Healthcare in Bulgaria for British and American Citizens

1. Healthcare System in Bulgaria

The Bulgarian healthcare system is divided into:

  • Public Healthcare: Managed by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
  • Private Healthcare: Private clinics offer more modern equipment and faster access to services, but require direct payment or private health insurance.

The quality of healthcare can vary:

  • In larger cities such as Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas: Well-equipped hospitals and specialized clinics, particularly in private healthcare facilities.
  • In rural areas: Limited access to specialists, often outdated equipment, and longer waiting times.

2. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities in the Burgas Region

  • City of Burgas:
    • Burgas has several modern hospitals, such as the University Hospital of Burgas and private clinics like “Life Hospital.”
    • Hospitals offer general medical care, surgery, and emergency services.
  • Surrounding Areas of Burgas:
    • In smaller towns like Pomorie or Aheloy, there are mainly general practitioners or small medical centers.
    • For complex procedures or emergencies, patients need to be transferred to hospitals in Burgas or larger cities like Sofia or Plovdiv.

3. Using British and American Health Insurance in Bulgaria

British and American citizens can use their health insurance in Bulgaria, but there are specific guidelines to follow.

For British citizens:

  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): This card allows you to receive urgent and basic medical care in public healthcare facilities in Bulgaria.
  • S2 or E112 Form: If you need planned treatment, you must apply for this form before your trip, through the UK’s NHS (National Health Service).

For American citizens:

  • Health Insurance: Americans must have an international health insurance plan or pay for medical treatment upfront, as US-based health insurance is not directly accepted in Bulgaria.

Documents Needed:

  1. EHIC for UK citizens or international insurance for US citizens.
  2. S2/E112 form for planned treatments (only applicable for UK citizens).

4. Medical Treatment in Bulgaria for British and American Citizens

  • Public Healthcare:
    • With the EHIC (for UK citizens), you can receive public healthcare free of charge or at a reduced cost.
    • US citizens must pay directly for public healthcare services unless they have private health insurance.
  • Private Healthcare:
    • Private clinics usually do not accept the EHIC card, so treatment must be paid out of pocket or through private insurance.
    • Private healthcare facilities often offer better services, quicker treatment, and modern facilities.

Reimbursement Process (for UK citizens):

  1. After receiving medical treatment, keep receipts and medical records.
  2. Submit these documents to the NHS for reimbursement.
  3. The NHS will reimburse based on the UK’s healthcare tariff, but this will typically not cover the entire cost.

For American citizens:

  • The reimbursement process is more complex, and it's usually easier to claim reimbursement from private health insurance companies if applicable.

5. Differences Between Public and Private Healthcare

  • Public Healthcare:
    • For UK citizens, it’s free or low-cost with EHIC.
    • US citizens must pay for public healthcare directly.
    • Longer waiting times, older equipment, and crowded facilities in public hospitals.
  • Private Healthcare:
    • Modern facilities, shorter waiting times, and often better access to English-speaking doctors.
    • Services are paid directly or covered by private health insurance.

6. Tips for Healthcare in Bulgaria

  1. Language Support:
    • Many doctors in larger cities speak English, but it’s helpful to bring a translator or someone who speaks Bulgarian, especially in smaller towns.
  2. Pharmacies (Аптека):
    • Pharmacies are widely available, and many medicines are available without a prescription.
  3. Emergency Numbers:
    • Emergency services: 112 (valid throughout Europe).

7. Conclusion

Healthcare in Bulgaria is good in major cities, but rural areas may have limited access to specialists. British citizens can use the EHIC for public healthcare, while Americans will need to pay for treatment upfront or rely on international insurance. In the Burgas region, hospitals are well-equipped for general healthcare, but for specialized treatment, you may need to travel to Sofia or Plovdiv.

Contact us for more information or assistance with managing your healthcare needs in Bulgaria!