The renovated and modernised facilities of the First Clinic of Surgery at UMHAT “Saint Marina"–Varna have been officially opened today with the blessing of His Eminence Yoan, the Metropolitan of Varna and Veliki Preslav. “The medical community is a unique one as it is a source of hope and a ray of light in our society," said the Metropolitan in his speech, recalling that 2026 is dedicated to St. Ivan Rilski, also known as St. John of Rila, the Miracle-Worker – the patron saint of Bulgarian doctors. “I wish each and every one of you the strong and rock-solid health that is needed so that you can preserve the health of people," added he.
The ribbon of the renovated Clinic was cut by the Executive Director of UMHAT “Saint Marina"–Varna Prof. Dr. Silva Andonova, the Rector of Medical University – Varna Prof. Dr. Dimitar Raykov and Prof. Dr. Temelko Temelkov, Rector of Medical University – Varna from 1999 to 2004.
“The First Surgery Clinic is the first Clinic renovated at UMHAT “St. Marina", as well as the first Surgical Clinic relocated to the hospital grounds. This renovation marks the end of a 25-year cycle during which all Clinics at the University Hospital have been renovated," emphasised Prof. Krasimir Ivanov. Approximately BGN 1 million has been invested in its renovation, and the conditions ensure exceptional comfort—a modern environment, cosiness, and excellent hygiene, combined with the professional care provided by the medical staff. The Clinic is an example of a modern medical facility and a model for future renovations.
The development of the Surgical Clinics at UMHAT “St. Marina"-Varna began in early 2000. Following the amended provisions in the Medical Institutions Act, the management of Medical University – Varna, represented by its Rector at that time, Prof. Temelkov, decided to relocate the Surgical Clinics from the District Hospital to UMHAT “St. Marina"-Varna. This was a revolutionary decision at the time – the only one of its kind as a model in Bulgaria.
“A unique model of healthcare has been created as a result of the close cooperation between the Medical University and the University Hospital in Varna. The culmination of this process was the decision of the Council of Ministers granting the management of UMHAT “St. Marina"-Varna to Medical University – Varna," pointed out Prof. Ivanov. He also extended his gratitude to
Prof. Temelkov and Prof. Krasimira Kisyova, who was the chief physician of the Hospital, for the bold decisions they had taken at that time.
Prof. Dr. Krasimir Ivanov thanked the management of Medical University – Varna for the beneficial partnership, which has resulted in the construction of modern seminar and training rooms equipped with smart technologies, computer equipment, simulators for all types of abdominal surgery, interactive whiteboards, and video systems.
“They allow for telemedicine, teleconsultation and monitoring of surgical activities. All patient tests and diagnostic data can be traced in real time within the integrated hospital network. Thus, the First Clinic of Surgery is confirming its position as a next-generation Clinic, combining cutting-edge education, modern medical practice, and patient care," underlined Prof. Ivanov.
The Rector of MU–Varna Prof. Dr. Dimitar Raykov commented, “The collaboration between the University and the Hospital is truly unique for Bulgaria – through focusing on the education of students, residents, and doctoral students, we provide the most practical knowledge for specific therapeutic and surgical training technologies. The construction of a simulation centre with simulators for surgery treatment, for echocardiography, endoscopic, ultrasound, and arthroscopic techniques is at its final stage. The University has invested in them, and the Hospital has provided conditions for education in an environment that is as close to reality as possible. At the same time, every student has the opportunity to gain real-life experience in the Clinics and operating rooms. Within the next three-four months, we will complete a large scientific research complex located on the premises of the Regional Health Inspectorate, which will incorporate lecture rooms, laboratories, and equipment," added Prof. Dimitar Raykov.
