"We urge the relevant authorities and Members of Parliament to recognize that covering prescription medications for children aged 0 to 7 is not just about saving public funds. Early diagnosis and prevention of serious childhood illnesses have immense added value, contributing to proper development, reducing chronic diseases in adolescents, and fostering a healthier generation."
This statement is part of a letter from the Ombudsman's institution, sent in support of the initiative "A Colorful Tomorrow for Our Children", carried out under the project "We Care 0 to 3: Prevention of Family Separation."
Recently, the Ombudsman’s institution "fully endorsed the initiative’s objectives" in an official statement.
The initiative, aimed at ensuring easier access to medications for children up to seven years old, is led by the Largo Association, the National Network of Health Mediators, the "Future" NGO – Rakitovo, and the "Thirst for Life" NGO. Advocacy efforts are part of the "Network of Care from 0 to 3" project, implemented by the Trust for Social Achievement Foundation with financial support from the Tanya’s Dream Fund.
The Ombudsman highlights that one of the key priorities in 2024 was children's healthcare. "In light of alarming statistics related to child mortality, high hospitalization rates, and the lack of a National Children's Hospital, we emphasize that these concerns are reflected in our Annual Activity Report presented to Parliament," the letter states.
Additionally, based on numerous complaints and appeals for access to outpatient medications for children, the Ombudsman has already recommended steps towards completely free pediatric healthcare. This includes covering prescription medications for acute illnesses and waiving various fees for children.
"The first step towards this goal could be state-funded prescription medications for children aged 0 to 7. Based on your research, we support the proposal to include a change in the NHIF Budget Law for 2025 under item 1.1.3.5.3.2, which covers ‘prescription medications for home treatment within the country, prescribed without a protocol, and not subject to expert assessments under Article 78, item 2 of the Health Insurance Act.’ The proposal seeks an allocation of BGN 6.8 million for free prescriptions covering acute viral infections, antibiotics, antihistamines, and corticosteroids," the letter states.
The Ombudsman also notes that measures for the sustainable improvement of child health are a strategic goal in the National Health Strategy for Child and Adolescent Health 2030, aiming to reduce health inequalities among children by improving access to medications. However, the institution acknowledges that implementing these priorities remains a significant challenge.