Foreigners in Bansko compare: 90 euros for an X-ray next to the lift versus 20 euros in Razlog

About a week ago in the popular English-language group Bansko Notice Board a heated discussion broke out, which quickly gathered over 50 reactions and dozens of comments. The topic? The prices of medical services in the resort and where it is most profitable to go if you suffer a minor ski injury. It turns out that the difference in prices for an X-ray in Bansko and the neighboring town of Razlog is drastic, and the experience of expats and tourists reveals interesting details about local healthcare.

The salty prices on the runway: 90 euros for two photos

The discussion begins with the publication of a tourist named Jay, who shares his personal experience after a fall and ankle injury. Since he has a season ticket, he initially decides to visit the medical center at the base station of the Gondola.

“The doctor examined my ankle and said I would have to pay 90 euros for two X-rays,” says Jay.

This clash with reality discourages him and forces him to look for an alternative outside the ski resort itself.

The Alternative: Fast, Modern and Cheap at Razlog Hospital

Instead of paying the requested amount, the author of the post headed to the state hospital in the neighboring town of Razlog. The result pleasantly surprised him:

Price: Only 20 euros for the same two photos (savings of 70 euros).
Process: Easy registration at the reception, payment and receipt of a ticket for the first floor.
Equipment: A brand new X-ray machine.
Time: Only 5 minutes of waiting for the photo and about an hour for the result (received on disk).

Fortunately, his diagnosis was a severe sprain with serious bruising, but no fractures.

What do other foreigners think in Bansko?

The post quickly garnered comments from other foreigners confirming the situation. Patricia shares with bitterness: “Yes… 3 weeks ago I paid 90 euros too. Thanks for the advice!”

Tanya notes that although she has never had to use it in 6 years, all her acquaintances recommend the hospital in Razlog over the clinics in Bansko. On the other hand, Nick is a little more moderate, pointing out that Razlog may not be an "amazing" place, but for a simple X-ray the staff is friendly and responsive.

Himself Jay adds important advice for more serious cases: if it's something that requires a hospital stay and more specialized care, he personally recommends Pulse Hospital in Blagoevgrad.

The European Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and the attitude of doctors

An interesting twist to the discussion is brought by James, which reminds that with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC) the service should have been free in a state institution. Jay confirms that he used the card for shoulder surgery in Bulgaria, but still had to pay for the medical supplies (plates and screws).

Alarm signal: The most disturbing comment comes from Sergey. In February 2025, he broke his humerus in three places on the “Ski Path”. At the medical center, they took an X-ray, put a splint on him and gave him painkillers (covered by insurance). The nurses were excellent, but according to Sergey, the doctor accused him of “faking” pain, since he claimed that only a small piece of bone was broken. After returning home, Sergey took new X-rays and found a triple fracture, from which he recovered for more than a year.

Conclusion

The dilemma between the convenience of private clinics on the piste itself and the accessibility of the state hospital in Razlog remains relevant for every tourist. While the centers next to the lift offer emergency assistance on site (often covered by insurers), the personal initiative of traveling to Razlog can save significant funds for those who pay out of pocket.

See the original discussion in English here

What is your experience with medical services in the region? Share in the comments!