Burgas, Bulgaria – Dr. Blagomir Zdravkov, the current director of the Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Pediatric Diseases “Prof. Ivan Mitev” in Sofia, has been selected as the novel manager of the Children’s Hospital in Burgas. The announcement follows a competitive selection process overseen by the Burgas Municipal Council, signaling a significant development in healthcare provision for the region. This appointment comes after a period of uncertainty for Dr. Zdravkov, who previously faced calls for his resignation, but was ultimately supported by the interim Minister of Health.
The selection process, conducted in three stages, culminated in a final interview with four candidates on March 10th. Dr. Zdravkov emerged as the top candidate with an overall score of 5.88, edging out Dr. Toma Tomov, an infectious disease specialist from Alexandrovska Hospital, who received a score of 5.63. Rounding out the top four were Dr. Ventzislav Dimov, a young anesthesiologist with a score of 5.19, and economist Dimitar Pomakov, who scored 5.02. The outcome reflects a careful evaluation by the commission, which considered both the candidates’ three-year management programs for the “St. Anastasia” Multiprofile Hospital for Active Treatment – Pediatric Clinic and their performance during the final interview.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The commission responsible for selecting the new hospital manager was specifically chosen by the Burgas Municipal Council and included prominent figures in the medical and legal fields. Dr. Lidia Stefanova, a municipal councilor, chaired the committee, with Zlatina Georgieva, chief legal counsel for the Burgas Municipality, serving as secretary. Members included Dr. Georgi Pazderov, director of the Regional Health Inspectorate (RZI) of Burgas; Dr. Zheni Stoichkova, chairman of the Regional College of Physicians (RC) in Burgas; and Professor Dr. Tsvetomir Lukanov, head of the Clinic for Pediatric Cardiac Surgery at Heidelberg University Hospital in Germany, who participated online. 24 Chasa reported on the thoroughness of the process.
Candidates were not only assessed on their proposed management strategies but also tasked with resolving case studies relevant to the challenges of leading the Children’s Hospital in Burgas. A key topic of discussion was the persistent shortage of medical specialists and strategies for attracting qualified personnel to the region. The new hospital represents a significant investment in pediatric healthcare infrastructure for Bulgaria, a point emphasized by Dr. Zdravkov during the selection process.
Dr. Zdravkov’s Vision for the New Hospital
Dr. Zdravkov expressed his belief that the new Children’s Hospital in Burgas will serve as a magnet for dedicated medical professionals committed to pediatric medicine. He described the project as “the most sensible investment in infrastructure in healthcare in many years,” highlighting its potential to transform healthcare access for children in the region. He also underscored his commitment to fostering collaboration and communication with relevant institutions and stakeholders. According to Nova News, Dr. Zdravkov’s continued leadership demonstrates a commitment to stability within the Bulgarian healthcare system.
Dr. Tomov, the runner-up in the selection process, also articulated a strong vision for the hospital, emphasizing the importance of its personnel. “For me, this is a mission. I believe that the soul of a hospital is its people,” he stated, reflecting a shared commitment to patient-centered care among the candidates.
Next Steps and Anticipated Timeline
Following the conclusion of the competition, the selection commission will formally recommend Dr. Zdravkov to the Burgas Municipal Council for approval. He is scheduled to present his management program to the councilors on March 17th, outlining his strategic vision for the hospital’s future. This presentation will be a crucial step in securing his appointment and initiating the implementation of his plans. The process underscores the local government’s commitment to ensuring the new hospital is led by a capable and experienced administrator.
The appointment of Dr. Zdravkov is particularly noteworthy given his recent challenges as director of the Sofia-based pediatric hospital. In February 2026, he submitted his resignation, citing institutional pressure and a lack of dialogue as key factors. But, the then-interim Minister of Health, Associate Professor Mikhail Okolijski, declined to accept his resignation, urging him to remain in his position. Paragraf.bg reported on the initial resignation and subsequent decision by the Minister.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges in Bulgaria
The opening of the Children’s Hospital in Burgas is expected to alleviate some of the pressures on pediatric healthcare services in Bulgaria. The country has faced ongoing challenges in ensuring adequate access to specialized medical care for children, particularly in regional areas. The new hospital is intended to serve as a regional center of excellence, attracting patients from across the country and providing a comprehensive range of pediatric services.
The shortage of medical specialists, a topic raised during the selection process, remains a critical concern. Attracting and retaining qualified doctors and nurses is essential for the hospital’s success. Strategies to address this issue may include competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and improved working conditions. The hospital’s location in Burgas, a coastal city with a growing economy, may also prove attractive to potential recruits.
The successful completion of this project represents a significant achievement for the Burgas Municipality and the Bulgarian healthcare system. It demonstrates a commitment to investing in the health and well-being of future generations. The focus on pediatric care reflects a growing recognition of the unique needs of children and the importance of providing them with access to high-quality medical services.
The appointment of Dr. Zdravkov, a seasoned healthcare administrator, provides a degree of continuity and expertise as the hospital prepares to open its doors. His experience leading the Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Pediatric Diseases “Prof. Ivan Mitev” in Sofia will be invaluable in navigating the challenges of establishing and operating a new hospital. His vision for collaboration and communication suggests a commitment to building strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the hospital serves the needs of the community.
The Burgas Municipal Council’s decision on Dr. Zdravkov’s appointment is expected shortly, paving the way for the next phase of preparations for the hospital’s launch. The presentation of his management program on March 17th will provide an opportunity for councilors to scrutinize his plans and ensure they align with the municipality’s strategic objectives. The successful opening of the Children’s Hospital in Burgas promises to be a landmark event for the region, improving healthcare access and outcomes for children for years to reach.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Blagomir Zdravkov has been selected as the new manager of the Children’s Hospital in Burgas.
- The selection process was rigorous, involving three stages and a panel of experts.
- The new hospital is expected to address healthcare challenges and improve access to pediatric care in Bulgaria.
- Dr. Zdravkov’s management program will be presented to the Burgas Municipal Council on March 17th.
The next key date is March 17th, when Dr. Zdravkov will present his management program to the Burgas Municipal Council. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this important development in Bulgarian healthcare in the comments below.