Ukraine and the UK to strengthen cooperation in the medical field: priority areas discussed
Minister of Health of Ukraine Viktor Liashko held a working meeting with the British Ambassador to Ukraine Martin Harris. During the meeting, the participants discussed the prospects for cooperation in the healthcare sector, the restoration of Ukrainian medical infrastructure, the development of partnerships between hospitals in both countries, and the exchange of experience.
“International support plays a critical role in ensuring the functioning of Ukraine’s medical system during the war. We are grateful to the UK for numerous humanitarian aid, support for those of our citizens who were forced to leave their homes due to the hostilities, and the implementation of joint projects. Together, we are not only strengthening the resilience of our healthcare system, but also creating opportunities for quality treatment and recovery for Ukrainians in need. The signing of the 100-year partnership agreement between Ukraine and the UK is an important step in strengthening bilateral relations. In particular, it opens up new opportunities for the development of cooperation in the healthcare sector in line with the priorities set out in the Healthcare Development Strategy until 2030”
During the meeting, the participants discussed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the healthcare sector between the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and the Department of Health and Social Care of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to implement the provisions of the Security Agreement and the 100-year partnership agreement between the countries.
Minister Viktor Liashko noted that Ukraine highly appreciates the UK’s experience in the healthcare sector and proposes to intensify bilateral cooperation between the countries in such areas as:
- development of horizontal cooperation between medical institutions - exchange of experience between doctors and medical specialists through internships, working visits and joint operations, organization of seminars and trainings with leading experts. Such cooperation will help improve the skills of our medics and introduce the latest treatment approaches.
- restoration of medical infrastructure also remains a priority. The UK’s expert support in the reconstruction and modernization of hospitals is important in creating a modern medical system in Ukraine. This includes the implementation of public-private partnership projects.
- development of those types of medical services, the demand for which has increased significantly due to the full-scale war, namely healthcare rehabilitation, mental healthcare, medical care for burn injuries, combat injuries and spinal injuries, etc.
Viktor Liashko added that Ukraine is open to new healthcare initiatives that can be jointly developed and implemented for the benefit of both countries. Cooperation will help not only to overcome current challenges but also to develop innovative solutions that will make the Ukrainian healthcare system even more sustainable and efficient.