NHIF-Funded Assistive Devices
Since 1 July 2022, the provision of assistive devices, aids, equipment and medical devices for people with disabilities has been administered by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and its regional structures, the Regional Health Insurance Funds (RHIFs).
The NHIF and RHIFs review applications, issue approvals and fund the provision of assistive devices in accordance with the applicable requirements and specifications.
Who is eligible for an NHIF-funded assistive device?
People with disabilities may be eligible when their need for an assistive device has been individually established through a medical document issued by a Medical Advisory Committee (LKK), Territorial Expert Medical Commission (TELK) or National Expert Medical Commission (NELK).
A TELK decision is not required in every case. Depending on the type of assistive device, a medical protocol issued by a specialised LKK may be sufficient.
Eligible applicants may include:
- People with permanent disabilities
- Older people with limited mobility
- Patients recovering from an injury or operation
- People with chronic conditions who require an assistive device for mobility or daily activities
Eligibility is determined according to the person’s medical condition and the requirements applicable to the specific type of assistive device.
For more detailed information, read our article “Who is eligible for assistive devices through the NHIF?”
Required documents
An electronic medical protocol or decision issued by an LKK, TELK or NELK is generally required. The document must prescribe the specific type of assistive device needed by the applicant.
When the document is issued by an LKK, the committee must specialise in the relevant medical condition. Current information about healthcare facilities and authorised specialist committees can be found on the website of the relevant Regional Health Inspectorate.
If the procedure is completed by an authorised representative, written authorisation is required. Notarisation is not necessary. A copy of the authorisation must be presented when the assistive device is collected.
For more detailed information, read our article “What documents are required when applying through the NHIF?”
Application process step by step
1. Issuing the medical document
An LKK, TELK or NELK issues an electronic protocol or decision prescribing the required assistive device. The application is then submitted electronically to the NHIF information system.
2. Review and approval
An expert committee of the NHIF or RHIF reviews the application and issues either an approval or a reasoned refusal.
The application is reviewed within seven days of its submission.
You may be notified of the decision by SMS or Viber using the telephone number provided in the application. If approved, you will receive a 10-digit code required to obtain the assistive device.
3. Receiving the assistive device
Provide the approval code to the Angelo team to receive the prescribed assistive device.
You must present a valid identity document when collecting the device. If it is collected by an authorised representative, a copy of the written authorisation must also be provided.
4. Service life
Each assistive device is provided for a specified service life. The duration varies depending on the type of device.
Once this period has expired, a new application may be submitted under the applicable procedure, provided that the current medical requirements are met.
5. Repairs and maintenance
During the specified service life, certain repairs and maintenance services may be approved and funded, including major repairs and the replacement of tyres, bearings or rechargeable batteries.
The type and frequency of funded repairs depend on the specific assistive device and the requirements set out in the NHIF specification.
How can Angelo help you?
Our team provides clear and professional guidance regarding:
- The available types of assistive devices
- Their features and intended use
- The NHIF application procedure
- Receiving an approved assistive device
- Available repair and maintenance services
Explore our selection of manual wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs and hospital beds. Funding eligibility depends on the prescribed assistive device and the approval issued by the NHIF.
ANGELO Ltd. is a contracted NHIF partner for the provision and repair of assistive devices for people throughout Bulgaria.
Do you have any questions?
Contact the Angelo team for a free consultation. We will explain the procedure and help you take the next step.
Alternatively, call us on +359 888 98 7922