Bulgaria proposes digitalization of medical expertise process

The Bulgarian Parliament has passed amendments to the Health Act at its first reading, aiming to digitize the medical expertise process (TELK and NELK). The proposed changes would allow for the entirely online submission of documents using either qualified or free cloud-based electronic signatures.

Under the new framework, submitted documents will be stored in a database where artificial intelligence can be used to perform risk assessments. This system is designed to categorize cases into high-risk or low-risk groups to better detect potential fraud and ensure that resources are directed toward those truly in need. While AI will assist in identifying high-risk cases for additional scrutiny, final decisions will remain the responsibility of the medical commissions.

Proponent of the bill, MP Alexander Simidchiev, noted that Bulgaria has over 800,000 individuals with TELK certifications, a figure he described as high compared to other European nations. The goal of the digitalization is to reduce long waiting times and physical queues for people with disabilities and their families. The bill is expected to undergo its second reading by the end of November.