Physician Assistant Education in Bulgaria

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health Workforce Development

Background:

• Physician Assistant (PA) education in Bulgaria commenced in 2014.
• The program is modeled on North American and European PA education systems.
• PA training is regulated by the Bulgarian Ministry of Health and is a registered profession.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the development and structure of the Physician Assistant (PA) education system in Bulgaria.
• To highlight the compliance with national educational standards and accreditation processes.
• To underscore the role of PAs in addressing healthcare needs and workforce shortages.

Main Methods:

• The PA bachelor's degree program comprises 8 semesters and approximately 5000 hours of combined classroom and clinical training.
• Accreditation is managed through the Bulgarian state system.
• Graduation requires passing three national examinations, leading to a diploma.

Main Results:

• As of 2020, two PA cohorts have graduated, with PAs serving in ambulatory care settings.
• Newer roles in curative (hospital) settings are under consideration.
• The PA program is recognized as a regulated profession.

Conclusions:

• Bulgaria has successfully established a PA education system aligned with international benchmarks.
• The PA workforce is poised to contribute cost-effectively to the national health system.
• The program aims to supplement and potentially replace the older feldsher system, enhancing healthcare delivery.