Kyiv, 27 June 2024 – Delivering a significant boost to Ukraine’s healthcare system, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has provided rehabilitation equipment valued at US$1 million to several healthcare facilities across the country. 

The initiative, funded by the governments of Germany, Japan and the Republic of Korea, is aimed at improving rehabilitation services for patients affected by the current war. The equipment was handed over to nine medical institutions, specifically in Vinnytsia and Khmilnyk (Vinnytsia Oblast), Pavlohrad and Kryvyi Rih (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast), Boiarka and Makariv (Kyiv Oblast), Lviv and Drohobych (Lviv Oblast), and the city of Chernihiv, as well as to two state rehabilitation institutions under the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine in the cities of Lviv and Vinnytsia.

The donated equipment includes essential items such as stairs with an inclined ramp for gait rehabilitation, medical beds, bedside cabinets with tables, single rehabilitation mirrors, electrical stimulators, rehabilitation devices for hands and legs, ceiling lifts, including ones with dynamic modules, and verticalizers. These advanced tools are designed to enhance the quality and efficiency of rehabilitation services, providing crucial support to patients recovering from war-related injuries.

UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine Jaco Cilliers emphasized the significance of this contribution: “The provision of this advanced rehabilitation equipment represents our unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine during these challenging times,” Cilliers said. “By enhancing the capabilities of healthcare facilities, we’re ensuring that those affected by the war receive the best possible care and support on their road to recovery.”

Chernihiv City Health Department Head Olha Malets said the delivery of the equipment was an important contribution to treating the war-wounded. “In the context of the ongoing conflict, the need for advanced rehabilitation services has never been greater,” Malets said. 

“This state-of-the-art equipment will enable our medical facilities to offer better care and support to those who have been injured. We’re deeply grateful to UNDP and the international community for their invaluable assistance, which helps us meet the growing needs of our patients.”

Kateryna Shevchenko, a patient undergoing rehabilitation at the Boiarka City Council Intensive Care Hospital, also expressed her gratitude: “Thanks to the modern equipment provided by the UNDP, I’m getting effective rehabilitation treatment that’s helping me regain my strength and independence. The opportunity to recover with the best possible care has made a significant difference to my life.”

UNDP representatives conducted a comprehensive monitoring mission to the hospitals in the cities from 20-27 June 2024 to assess their current needs and ensure the provided equipment could be used effectively. This mission underscored UNDP’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that the equipment provided is utilized to its fullest potential.

The initiative also highlights the importance of international cooperation and support for strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare capabilities in the face of ongoing challenges. The advanced rehabilitation equipment will play a crucial role in helping patients recover and reintegrate into their communities, ultimately fostering a healthier and more resilient society. By equipping hospitals with the latest tools, we are not only addressing immediate medical needs, but also contributing to the long-term recovery and well-being of the population.

Media Enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; email: yuliia.samus@undp.org