site.btaHealth Ministry Develops Vision for Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

At the initiative of outgoing Health Minister Silvi Kirilov, a vision for the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has been developed, laying the foundations for the use of new technologies in diagnostics, treatment and the management of health services, the Health Ministry said on Monday.

The document outlines a strategic framework for the implementation of AI-based solutions aimed at supporting medical professionals and improving the quality, efficiency and access to healthcare services, while ensuring data security and the protection of patients’ rights. At the same time, it guarantees that AI will serve as a tool to assist healthcare specialists, with final medical decisions continuing to be taken solely by physicians, the Ministry said.

The project envisages the phased introduction of intelligent systems in areas such as early diagnosis and prevention, medical imaging analysis, clinical decision support, optimization of hospital processes and reduction of the administrative burden on medical teams. Priorities also include the development of research activities, improved use of health data for policy planning, and the creation of conditions conducive to innovation in the sector.

Special emphasis is placed on ethical standards and human oversight in the use of artificial intelligence. Measures are also planned to enhance the digital skills of healthcare professionals, along with initiatives to raise public awareness about the opportunities and limitations of these technologies.

The document has been published on the Ministry’s website and submitted for coordination to the Electronic Governance Ministry in connection with forthcoming steps to implement the EU regulatory framework on artificial intelligence.

A few days ago, the Health Ministry also announced the start of the integration of the national cybersecurity system in regional and university hospitals across the country.