On 27th of November 2008, the Council of Ministers adopted the National Plan for Rare Diseases – genetic disorders, congenital malformations and nonhereditary diseases (2009-2013). The plan consists of the following 9 priorities:
1. Collecting epidemiological data for the rare diseases in Bulgaria by creation of a national register.
2. Improvement of the prevention of the genetic rare diseases by enlarging the current screening programmes.
3. Improvement of the prevention and diagnostics of the genetic rare diseases by introducing new genetic tests, decentralisation of the laboratory activities and easier access to medico-genetic counseling.
4. Integrative approach to the prevention, diagnostics, medical treatment and social integration of patients and their families.
5. Promotion of the professional qualification of medical specialists in the field of early diagnostics and prevention of rare diseases.
6. Feasibility study on the necessity, possibility and criteria for creation of a referent centre for rare diseases of functional type.
7. Organising a national campaign for informing the society about rare diseases and their prevention.
8. Support and collaboration with NGOs and patient associations for rare diseases.
9. Collaboration with the other EU members.
The total budget of the plan is 22 103 098 BGN. An English version of the National Plan for Rare Diseases will be published soon on our website.
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