How do the different health insurance companies in Bulgaria compare?

Choosing a health insurance company in Bulgaria requires a comparison based on clear criteria: price, coverage, access to partner networks, service andadditional services.There are both state (NHOC) and numerous private companies for voluntary health insurance operating in the country.

What types of health insurance are available in Bulgaria?

There are two main types in Bulgaria:

• Compulsory health insurance– through the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF);
• Voluntary health insurance– through private insurance companies.

Private companies supplement or upgrade the basic package of the NHIF with faster access to specialists, choice of clinic and shorter waiting times.

By what criteria should you compare health insurance companies?

For an objective comparison, use the following factors:

Criterion	What to watchthey?
Coverage	What medical services does it include: prevention, hospital care, operations?
Network of partners	Which clinics, laboratories and hospitals does the company work with?
Package price	Monthly or annual fee, allowances for age or chronic diseases.
Service	Response time, access to consultants, digital service.
Additional services	Telemedicine, preventive examinations, psychological support, mobile applications.

What are users saying?

The feedback shows:

• Private companies havebetter serviceandshorter waitfor review;
• There is at the NHSOClimited accessto certain services and frequent administrative obstacles;
• Company plans often provide better value than individual plans.

Private package against NHIF

Type uservant	Private company	NHSOC
Examination by a specialist	Up to 48 hours.	Up to 30 days per direction.
Hospital treatment	Private clinic, no waiting.	On schedule, with directions.
Choice of doctor/hospital	Yes.	Limited.
Surcharge	It depends on the package.	Almost always.

How to choose the best company?

• Determine your needs (frequent check-ups, chronic conditions, family);
• Compare at least 3 companies according to the above criteria;
• Read reviews, check ratings, request offers with exact terms;
• Don't choosethemonly at price –the quality of service is often more important.

Criterion	Data
Types of insurance in Bulgaria	Compulsory (NHOC) and voluntary (private companies).
What does a good health insurance include?	Specialists, hospital treatment, telemedicine, prevention.
What are the differences betweenprivate and government coverage?	Private: faster access and choice NHIF: limited coverage, long terms
What are consumers saying about health insurance companies?	Private companies offer better service and less waiting.
Comparison by service	Private: up to 48 hours for an examination NHIF: up to 30 days with a referral
How to choosethemsuitable company?	Determine your needs, compare at least 3 offers, read reviews, don't choose just by price.

More information on international health insurance can be found herelink!