Thousands of Bulgarian medics have left the country in the past decade, seeking better pay abroad. Medical unions say the numbers increased after Bulgaria joined the EU last year, creating staff shortages.

Last month, nurses, midwives and laboratory assistants rallied across the country to press for higher pay and urge the government to stop medical workers leaving.

Kehayov said the doctors' union will hold talks with nurses' organisations and local authorities to seek more funding.

Bulgaria has been hit by a wave of protests in the past several months, increasing pressure on the Socialist-led government to boost living standards in the poorest EU nation, where monthly salaries average about 450 levs ($333).

Earlier this year, teachers staged a six-week strike which paralysed schools and kindergartens. Miners, social workers and pensioners have also demanded more money.

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