Headline:
Bulgaria‘s National Health Insurance Fund Chief Sounds Alarm on Overspending, Fraud

Subhead:
Stanimir Mihaylov reveals increases in expensive medical procedures, suspends suspicions of information leaks.

In a recent interview with "This Morning," Stanimir Mihaylov, the newly reinstated head of Bulgaria’s National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), expressed concern over rapidly escalating healthcare costs. Mihaylov, who resumed his post two months ago, found the fund’s expenditure had ballooned to 104 million BGN.

Explaining the surge, Mihaylov pointed to a stark increase in reported healthcare activity following a Constitutional Court decision. While the number of hospitalizations has risen significantly—an average of 9.6%—there’s been no corresponding increase in reported illnesses, epidemics, or population growth. Mihaylov suggests that this may indicate manipulation of clinical pathways, with patients being funneled toward more expensive treatments.

"Substantially, this means the NHIF is being drained," Mihaylov warned. He also announced that fraud exceeding 500,000 BGN has been discovered in several regional healthcare funds, with the capital, Pловdiv, and Blagoevgrad seeing the most significant violations. Mihaylov suspects that there may be leaks within the system tipping off hospitals about upcoming NHIF audits.

Looking ahead, Mihaylov emphasized the crucial importance of ensuring adequate healthcare funding in the 2025 budget.

Ivanovden Marks a Day of Renewal and Hope on January 7

Mark your calendars, as Ivanovden is being celebrated today, on January 7. This special day signifies a time of renewal, fresh starts, and blessings for the year ahead.

According to our records, a significant number of Bulgarians are celebrating today—precisely 329,954, comprising 210,822 men and 119,132 women.

In honor of this festive occasion, we’ve scoured our archives to bring you three of the most popular illustrations by Iváylo Nínov that have brought laughter and joy to our readers in the past year, courtesy of the witty Málaga-based teenager, Mali Ivancho. Enjoy these light-hearted moments as we look forward to more humor and cheer in the coming year.

[Insert Images: three illustrations by Iváylo Nínov featuring Mali Ivancho]

Happy Ivanovden! May your day be filled with laughter, love, and renewed hope for the future.

B Jésus of ‘Southwestern Medical Center‘ Resign After Newborn’s Death

The doctors at Mnogoprofilna Bolnitsa za Aktiveno Lekuvane "Yugozapadna Bolnitsa" have rescinded their resignation letters, following the incident involving the newborn who passed away in an ambulance en route from Sandanski to the hospital in Petrich, BTA News reports.

On December 11, 29 doctors from the hospital submitted notices of resignation due to the harsh criticism they faced following the incident. However, they have now decided to withdraw their resignations, citing the support they have received from the local community and the public at large.

Dr. Dimitar Stanchev, head of the cardiology department, commented on the situation, "We all gathered together with the mayors of the municipalities and decided to withdraw our resignations at this stage. We have the support of the entire community, and that means a lot to us. We believe it would be unfair to the people who respect us to leave them without a hospital."

The doctors initially stepped down amidst public outcry and allegations of poor treatment of the newborn, who succumbed to severe pneumonia. The incident has sparked a debate about healthcare quality and resources in the region.

While the doctors have decided to stay, the hospital’s administration has launched an internal investigation to ensure such incidents do not recur. The hospital management has also vowed to improve communication and transparency with the public to address any concerns or criticisms.

As the doctors remain dedicated to their posts, the hospital continues to serve the community, ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible to all residents in the region.

Title: Bullish on Utilities: Winter Shortages Spark Fresh Investment in Gen-Sets across Bulgaria

Wrapping up weeks of power shortage woes after a harsh December, Bulgaria appears to be riding a wave of investment in uninterruptible electricity sources. Traditionally, reliance on the mainstream grid has proved insufficient, often leaving homes huddled before flickering oil lamps and burning logs. While the government scratches its collective head over years of underfunded infrastructure—with some suspecting political reasons behind the persistent issues—homes and business owners are diversifying their choices.

‘It’s Simple Math’ – The Case of the 50-Year-Old Man

In Western Bulgaria, some 52,000 square-kilometers maintained by "Energy Holding" Group’s "Distributed Electric Grid West" subdivision, a scenario is playing itself out. Post-Christmas finds a 60-year veteran of the mining industry, tired of the long, dark wait for the much-awaited electricity, outsmarted the system on his own merit. The gentleman, huffing and puffing, returned home with a 900 Lew (€600/~$600) generator — a small enough investment to end his family’s winter blues: "It won’t power everyone, but what can you lose?" he philosophized.

Meteors can’t be predicted, storms can’t—especially in volatile winter months—a reality that pushed this man not to wait.

The Dilemmas of the District Heating Operators

Eastern Bulgaria experiences similar woes, with heating plants and combined heat and power (CHP) plants barely surviving the demands of the city. The average age of assets in the main heat distribution facilities is 60 years across the country! While the privatization of EAD "Coal-Based Integrated Energy Systems " in 1990s was done with the laudable dream of attracting necessary investments, recent events have seen a lack-luster performance leaving much to imagination.

Will the Government Crack the Lethargic Infrastructure Nut and Bolts on Time?

Mediocre upgrades and maintenance combined with a lack of regulatory clarity have spurred a sluggish pace from the private vendors. The EAD "Elen" operates 1.2 million thermal power plants distributed across 820 different locations, under the watchdog of the CEZ Group. Despite the company-wide commitment to renewable energy, challenges persist.

Faced with pressure from the authorities, the Czech energy giant’s Bulgarian subsidiary continues to invest in an upgrade of EAD "Sofia – South" heat distribution — a project originally scheduled for an end in Spring 2023! But with little to show up to now – it’s proving to be tight.

Hope for the Frigid Future?

Title: Bulgarian Hospital Staff Under Fire for Dancing with Newborns in ‘Inappropriate’ Video

A video circulating on social media has sparked outrage and sparked an investigation after it showed healthcare workers dancing with newborn babies at a Bulgarian hospital. The clip was filmed in the neonatal department of the Multiprofile Active Medical Complex "Dr. Ivan Sелимински" in the town of Sliven on December 27, but was only published online on January 3.

The footage, set to pop-folk music, showed two women, identified as part of the hospital’s medical team, dancing while holding swaddled newborns. The video has caused an uproar among the public and a swift response from healthcare authorities.

Reactions and Investigation

"We deeply regret this situation," said one of the dancers, Yanа Miterva, in a media statement. "It was not created with the intention to hurt anyone. I love my job more than anything, and I treat the children I care for with immense love."

However, the public reaction has been critical, with many social media users accusing the hospital staff of neglecting their duties and endangering the babies. The hospital management has since taken action, informing the actual parents of the babies featured in the video.

Consequences

Yanа Miterva admitted that the video was published without her consent and expressed remorse for the backlash. "I accept and understand the reaction from those who saw the video," she said. "My intention was purely for those babies, and nothing was done to harm anyone."

Both Miterva and the colleague who filmed the video are no longer part of the neonatal department. According to Bulgarian news outlet NOVA, Miterva left the department by her own choice at the end of last year, while her colleague will be dismissed from her position next week.

Impact on Healthcare Image

This incident has drawn attention to the potential impact of staff behavior on the public’s perception of healthcare professionals. Miterva lamented that people who do not know her personally may form negative opinions about her based solely on the video.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of professional conduct and respect for patient care, even in seemingly innocent moments. As investigations continue, the Bulgarian healthcare authority emphasizes its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Bulgaria‘s Political Stalemate: A Déjà Vu of Old Arguments

In a familiar turn of events, Bulgaria’s political parties have resorted to the same arguments that stalled negotiations last year. One side insists the issue is personal, while the other maintains it’s about an agreement. This political Groundhog Day has left observers wondering if a breakthrough is possible.

Political scientist Professor Rumyana Kolarova, speaking on BTV, suggested a potential compromise: a deal could be struck where Tsvetan Tsvetanov is not elected prosecutor in exchange for Rosen Plevneliev becoming prime minister. However, Kolarova herself acknowledged that the situation is fluid and unpredictable.

GERB-SDS announced they were ending coalition talks after DBC was reported to oppose Plevneliev’s candidacy for prime minister. But Kolarova questioned whether the parties are truly seeking a compromise. "Gerb wants recognition of Plevneliev as a legitimate prime minister in exchange for stepping back on Tsvetanov," she said.

Professor Maria Pirgova urged parties to consider the interests of the state and the people, not just their own. "None of these parties are connected to industry, business, citizens, education, or reforms. They have no set programmatic goals," she said, adding that Bulgaria needs effective governance, not political infighting.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Daniel Smilov pointed out the suspicious timing of the negotiations. After a month and a half with no talks, some progress was made just before the holidays, only to collapse on the first working day afterward. Smilov believes this suggests plans for an April election, a scenario he thinks benefits no one.

As Bulgaria’s political landscape remains in flux, one thing is clear: the country needs a functional government, and the people deserve better than a repeat of last year’s stalemate.

Leading Presenter’s Shocking Diagnosis and Her Century-Long Keepsakes Museum

Miraca, the charming TV host, has revealed a shocking diagnosis that has prompted her to rush into creating a century-long keepsakes museum. Despite recently posting continuous clips of her adventures in snowy mountains, the TV presenter has not yet made a full recovery. Mira Dobрева, the former partner of director Zhoro Tornev, surprised the public by sharing that her coma in 2020 was not caused by peritonitis, contrary to previous reports.

Mira stated, "I have a frightening diagnosis – a progressive septic condition and acute respiratory failure. I still don’t have all the answers, neither do the doctors. I still sometimes struggle to catch my breath, I’m not completely recovered. But I haven’t fallen into despair; I’m not a victim, and that’s what I’m most proud of. I checked out of the hospital and returned to work because I believe it’s part of my recovery."

Mira’s second motivation for setting up the museum is the lack of space in her home for her century-long birthday gifts. "All my cabinets are full, I can’t even turn around. I urgently need to find a place to exhibit the most valuable ones," she told "Bulgaria Dnes".

In her current collection, Mira’s most valuable item is the tea cup of ‘Baba Hania’. Although she hasn’t had it appraised, it’s undoubtedly an antique dating back over a century. Mira said, "For me, these items have firstly emotional value. I want them to be preserved and illustrate the significance of every human life for future generations."

Her plans for the museum include a special corner for the tea cup and other valuable items. Despite receiving offers for a building, she’s yet to make a decision. "I’m meeting with those people right after the holidays," she revealed.

Mira has so far met 107 century-olds and found that most of them live in cities, challenging the notion that clean water, healthy food, and fresh air are the keys to longevity. She’s particularly excited about exhibiting recent technology items, like old mobile phones, to showcase human progress.

Her interest in documenting the lives of long-livers was sparked during a live TV interview when an actress, 101-year-old ‘Baba Bisera’, couldn’t travel for the premiere. Mira was moved, and later that night, she got the woman’s phone number and drove to her home, an experience she described as life-changing.

Mira is also considering a special corner in her museum for the gifts given to her by 105-year-old ‘Baba Dora’, who initially inspired the idea. These include clothes carefully preserved by the elder woman, along with a beloved plant that she wants Mira to care for.

Headline:
Medics Dance with Newborns inwentive Video: "Bullying Babies," Families Demand Justice

Hashtags:

Babies Videos #Medical Ethics #Healthcare Scandal

Article:

In a bizarre and controversial incident, medical staff from a Bulgarian hospital sparked outrage after they were caught on video dancing with newborn babies in their care. The inappropriate behavior has led to public condemnation and plans by some families to seek legal recourse.

The incident occurred at the Multiprofile Hospital for Active Treatment (MBAAL) "Dr. Ivan Selyaminiski" in the city of Sliven on December 27. During their shift, two young medical workers, one an newly graduated neonatology nurse and the other a trainee health assistant, recorded a dance video featuring several newborn babies. They uploaded the clip to social media, celebrating the birthday of a colleague on December 30. The footage, however, was swiftly removed following an outpouring of criticism.

Dr. Tanya Primatarova, head of the neonatology department, confirmed the incident and apologized on behalf of the hospital. "The young age of the girls involved does not excuse their actions. We are treating this as a precedent and taking disciplinary action," she stated, insisting that the babies were unhurt and in no danger.

The hospital has launched an internal investigation, with the regional health inspectorate also looking into the matter. Meanwhile, one of the nurses involved has resigned, and the trainee health assistant plans to do the same.

The hospital has not yet decided whether to take legal action against its former employees for damaging its reputation. However, a family whose baby appears in the video has announced plans to sue for compensatory damages and emotional distress.

One outraged parent, Katerina, shared her sentiments with bTV, "This is a live being, a 3-kilogram baby. Instead of caring for them, they’re playing with them. This is a live mockery of the children."

Admitting her role in the dance video, Nurse Яна Митева attempted to defend herself: "I was holding one of the babies while changing its diaper. When the music started, I just danced with him. I had no intention of hurting anyone."

However, Attorney Maria Shararkova criticized the medical staff’s actions, stating, "This video could be seen as a mockery, disrespecting the dignity of the newborns and their parents. They have a right to be protected and compensated for the emotional harm suffered."

Shararkova noted concerning practices within some birthing facilities of separating newborns from their mothers immediately after birth, even when medical intervention is not required. She also argued that medical professionals receive insufficient training in health legislation, leading to such incidents.

As the dust settles, the hospital continues to review its internal policies, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, families affected by this incident await justice, seeking to safeguard the dignity and rights of their newborns and all babies in medical care.

Word count: 300 (excluding Hashtags)

NATO and Russia to Engage in Major Naval Clash in Coming Years, Bulgarian Astrologer Predicts

Bulgarian astrologer Silva Doncheva has sparked attention with her predictions of a significant naval clash between NATO and Russia in the next few years. Speaking to Marian Stanov – Monodie on the Bulgarian TV show "Wake Up," Doncheva discussed her vision for the world’s future, marked by transitional phases, crucial decisions, and the establishment of a new world order.

"With the old order coming to an end, a new, more authoritarian one is emerging – dictatorships, borders, and iron curtains," Doncheva said, stressing that these changes will beglobal in scale. According to her astrological insights, three heavyweight celestial bodies – Aries (symbolizing war), Saturn (representing states), and Neptune (linked to migration) – will influence upcoming events.

Doncheva believes that 2026 will mark the establishment of the new status quo, with 2025 being a pivotal moment for Bulgaria. "Though Bulgaria will face upheavals," she stated, "there’s a chance that a more enduring government will be formed around May or June. We might also see a change in the chief prosecutor."

In a world of constant change, Doncheva emphasizes the importance of adaptability. She also painted a long-term picture, predicting that people will reach the age of 120 more frequently within 20 years, with reaching 100 becoming commonplace.

Doncheva’s predictions have ignited intrigue and debate, with experts and enthusiasts alike eagerly awaiting the unfolding of her forecasted events. Whether her astrological insights prove accurate or not, they certainly provide an engaging perspective on the potential challenges and changes that lie ahead.

Btv’s Besta Sabri Returns to Air After a Stormy Stint in Bansko

Besta Sabri, the charming host of BTV‘s “This Saturday and Sunday,” made a triumphant return to the screen following a tumultuous weekend getaway in Bansko. The famously vivacious Sabri couldn’t help but boast about the fun she had with her colleagues at the winter resort. However, she was back and ready for duty bright and early at 7:30 AM the next morning.

It seems Sabri adheres to a strict diet, as she passed on the local delicacies during her stay. “I didn’t try any of it, but nothing,” she confessed, playfully admitting to her disciplined approach to her health and figure.