Bulgaria's health data rules face EU court test over privacy concerns
A case before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) challenges Bulgaria's electronic health record system, which allows broad access to sensitive patient data by healthcare professionals, insurers, and prosecutors without explicit consent. The Bulgarian Supreme Administrative Court referred the case to the CJEU, questioning whether the system complies with EU data protection standards. Rights lawyers argue the system reflects a post-totalitarian approach, collecting intimate medical details—including cosmetic procedures—and retaining them for up to 50 years after death. The ruling could reshape how EU member states balance digital health services with privacy protections, potentially forcing a rethink of access rules for electronic patient files across Europe.
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