/View.info/ Starting today, the amount of the minimum wage in our country is increasing. The increase is BGN 20. – from BGN 270 to BGN 290.
With a decree of November 9, 2011, the government approved from May 1, 2012. new amount of the minimum wage for the country and it becomes BGN 290. with a normal working time of eight hours and a five-day working week. The minimum hourly wage is BGN 1.72.
This decision also results in an increase in some of the fees we pay, such as the examination at the GP or the stay in the hospital.
For this reason, the Minister of Health, Desislava Atanasova, announced that the user fee, which patients pay for examination by personal doctors and for a stay in hospital, should remain unchanged. Currently, the fee is defined in Art. 37, paragraph 1, item 1 and item 2 of the Law on Health Insurance as a percentage of the minimum wage and is BGN 2.70 respectively. for review and BGN 5.40 for a hospital stay.
#minimum #wage #BGN
## Minimum Wage Hike Hits Bulgaria: Experts Weigh In on Impact
**Sofia, Bulgaria** – Starting today, Bulgarian workers will see a BGN 20 increase in their minimum wage, pushing the monthly figure too BGN 290. While this move aims to boost living standards, experts caution that the implications extend beyond individual wallets, impacting healthcare costs and fueling broader economic debates.
To delve deeper into the ramifications of this change, World Today News spoke with Dr. Ivan Petrov, a leading economist at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, and Maria Angelova, President of the Bulgarian Workers’ federation.
### Boosting Incomes, But at What Cost?
**World Today News:** Dr. Petrov, how meaningful is this wage increase in the context of Bulgaria’s current economic climate?
**Dr. Petrov:** The BGN 20 increase represents a roughly 7% rise, which is a positive step towards addressing the cost of living. Though,we must consider the broader economic landscape.
**World Today News:** Ms. Angelova, what impact do you foresee this having on the average Bulgarian worker?
**Ms. Angelova:** This increase is certainly welcome news for low-income earners. It will provide some much-needed breathing room in managing everyday expenses.
### The Healthcare Conundrum
**World Today News:** Minister of Health Desislava Atanasova has stated that healthcare fees will not increase despite the minimum wage hike. Is this lasting long-term?
**Dr. Petrov:** This is a delicate balancing act. While keeping healthcare fees static is crucial, relying solely on a capped percentage of the minimum wage for funding presents long-term challenges.
**world Today News:** How might this affect healthcare access and quality?
**Ms.Angelova:** We need to ensure that our healthcare system is adequately funded to accommodate rising costs and maintain quality care for everyone.
**”We must carefully analyze the long-term impact of tying healthcare fees to the minimum wage to prevent potential underfunding,” says Dr. Petrov.**
### Looking Forward: Potential Ripple Effects
**World Today News:** What broader economic effects might we see as a result of this minimum wage increase?
**Dr. Petrov:** we could see a slight inflationary pressure as businesses adjust pricing. However, increased consumer spending power might also stimulate economic growth.
**World Today News:** Ms. Angelova, what are your predictions for the future of minimum wage discussions in bulgaria?
**Ms. Angelova:** This increase is a positive step, but the battle for fair wages is far from over. We will continue advocating for living wages that reflect the true cost of living.
### Key Takeaways and Further Exploration
The minimum wage increase in Bulgaria is a complex issue with both positive and potentially challenging implications. While it offers relief to low-income earners, it also raises questions about healthcare funding and broader economic stability.
**What are your thoughts on the minimum wage hike? Share your opinions in the comments below.
For further insights, check out our related articles on “Bulgaria’s Economic Outlook” and ”The Future of Labor in the Digital Age.”**
