St. Anna Hospital under investigation for blood donation refusals

Bulgaria's Minister of Health, Katya Ivkova, has ordered an investigation into the transfusion hematology department at St. Anna University Multiprofile Hospital following reports of blood donation refusals.

The inspection, to be conducted by the Executive Agency for Medicines, follows social media allegations that the hospital has been turning away blood donors due to a lack of nutritional food packages. The investigation will also examine claims that hospital staff have been using their own funds to purchase food and drinks to allow donations to proceed.

Funding for donor breakfasts is provided by the National Center of Transfusion Hematology, which transfers 10.23 euros per donor to St. Anna Hospital monthly. This amount includes 4.09 euros specifically designated for supportive-tonic snacks. While the National Center provides the funds, the hospital is responsible for the organization and provision of these meals.