National Cardiology Hospital faces emergency department staff shortage

The National Cardiology Hospital (NCH) in Sofia is facing a significant shortage of medical staff, particularly within its emergency department. Director Dr. Krasimir Dzhinsov reported that the hospital needs to appoint at least three doctors following the departure of colleagues who are pursuing different medical specialties.

Dr. Dzhinsov noted that high turnover is common in emergency departments, as they often serve as entry points for young doctors seeking practical experience before moving into other specialties. While the hospital has organized its internal structure to ensure all shifts are covered without disrupting patient care, the vacancy remains a concern.

Addressing the broader context, Dr. Dzhinsov emphasized that the shortage is a national issue driven by inadequate compensation. He called on politicians and experts to improve wages for all medical specialists to ensure they are adequately supported and can focus on patient care. One departing physician, Dr. Kristina Stefanova, highlighted the intense nature of the work and the decision to move toward a different specialization.