“Since its introduction, health insurance in Bulgaria has been recording double-digit premium growth. This trend will continue, as health insurance is the preferred way for accessing outpatient care in the country,” emphasized Irina Peycheva, ABZ Health Insurance Committee Member and Health Insurance Director at Generali, in an interview for ECONOMIC.BG. She highlighted the important role of preventive programs offered under health insurance policies, which contribute not only to occupational medicine but also bring tangible benefits to individuals. Insurers, she noted, are a serious factor in promoting the value and meaning of prevention.
Peycheva explained that health insurance in Bulgaria initially began with the concept of establishing a “second pillar” (similar to pensions), which led to the creation of health insurance companies and a distinct financial product. In 2014, following a change in the concept, this activity shifted fully into the insurance framework. Health insurance differs from other types of insurance in terms of specific risks, claims ratios, additional services, standardized package offerings, administration, and the overall client experience. Insurance brokers have also played a significant role in expanding market penetration and promoting the use of health insurance.
According to Peycheva, the Bulgarian market has matured, with health insurance primarily developing through employer-based programs. Group policies are widely offered as employee benefits, often allowing family members to join under similar conditions. Individual and family policies, however, remain rare. Over time, knowledge and use of health insurance has broadened, turning it into both a necessity and a lifestyle. For years, it has been the most preferred employee benefit, considered standard in some industries.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated new practices such as telemedicine and digital claims processing. Today, most insurers no longer require original documents for smaller claims, and health insurance cards have been digitized. Consumers increasingly value digital solutions, self-service, and proactive health management. Generational differences are also evident: older generations tend to postpone care, while Gen Z, more informed and digitally active, is proactive in using services. Emerging trends in health insurance include coverage for stress and mental health, post-COVID complications, and growing attention to medical inflation.
Health insurance provides clients with fast and convenient access to medical services, coverage for costs beyond the public system, and freedom of choice among healthcare providers nationwide. It finances outpatient care, prevention, specialized consultations, hospital services, medication, dental care, and more. While it does not cover all medical expenses, health insurance significantly reduces financial strain for working-age individuals and families.
“Hashtag words for 2025 are: Medical inflation, Electronic health record, Psychological consultations,” Peycheva noted. She stressed the importance of electronic health records for storing and accessing medical data, which can improve diagnostics, treatment, and system transparency. Cooperation between the state and insurers offering medical insurance would bring many benefits and efficiencies for citizens, healthcare providers, and the overall system.
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