Bulgarian Medical Union annual awards

In October 2026, the Bulgarian Medical Union held ceremonies to recognize outstanding medical professionals while marking the organization’s 125th anniversary.

At the national ceremony, Professor Kaloyan Davidov, head of the Urology Clinic at SofiaMed, was named ‘Doctor of the Year 2026’. Vice President Iliana Yotova presented Davidov with the Golden Prize, recognizing his pioneering work in laser and robotic surgery, including over 1,700 robotic operations.

Regional awards were distributed across the country. In Plovdiv, Dr. Kiril Hadzhikhristev was named ‘Doctor of the Year 2026’ for internal medicine and cardiology. Other honorees in Plovdiv included neurologist Dr. Milcho Bumbalov, as well as Assoc. Prof. Petar Uchikov and Prof. Gencho Nachev from St. George University Hospital. Prof. Mitko Mitkov was also recognized at the Chilova Academy in Pamporovo.

In Veliko Tarnovo, the District Medical College held a ceremony to honor physicians in recognition of Bulgarian Doctor's Day and the union's anniversary. Infectious disease specialist and educator Dr. Maya Popova-Barzenska received the top distinction, ‘Doctor of the Year 2026’. Dr. Dimitar Krushev was presented with the ‘Dr. Stefan Cherkezov’ award for medical dedication and ethics, while nephrologist Dr. Margarita Velkova and anesthesiology head Dr. Sibila Marinova received honors for long-term contributions to their specialties.

During these events, Vice President Yotova emphasized the need to protect the authority of doctors and ensure adequate working conditions. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Galab Donev called for continuous dialogue between the state and the medical community regarding healthcare organization and financing.