Ministry of Health and UNOPS discussed the implementation of joint projects in the health sector

The Ministry of Health of Ukraine hosted a meeting with representatives of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), during which the parties discussed the results of joint projects and prospects for further cooperation in the reconstruction and development of medical infrastructure.

The meeting also brought together Hennadii Nersesian, Deputy Minister of Health of Ukraine, representatives of the UNOPS Office in Ukraine and Eastern Europe, and the HEAL Ukraine Project Implementation Team.

The meeting focused primarily on ongoing cooperation and future areas of support provided under the joint project between the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and the World Bank, Health Enhancement and Lifesaving (HEAL Ukraine).

"We have been implementing joint projects for some time now, aimed at restoring and developing medical infrastructure and expanding access to rehabilitation and psychological support. Such cooperation is extremely important to us, as it directly impacts the quality of healthcare provided to patients; therefore, we are keen to expand our cooperation and enhance its effectiveness, as well as to identify new joint projects in the interests of developing the healthcare sector,” said Hennadii Nersesian.

In particular, as part of this collaboration, the fitting out of 60 psychological relief rooms in primary healthcare centres has already been completed. These are specially organised spaces where people can receive psychological support and assistance in coping with the effects of stress and crisis situations.

At the same time, major refurbishments and renovations are underway at eight healthcare facilities, where modern rehabilitation wards are being established. The implementation of these projects will improve the conditions for providing rehabilitation care and make it more accessible to patients.

During the meeting, particular attention was paid to preparing healthcare facilities for the autumn and winter period and to possible solutions for strengthening their resilience in the face of risks to critical infrastructure. For its part, the Ministry of Health is working systematically to ensure the uninterrupted operation of healthcare facilities: it conducts on-site monitoring of their readiness in the regions, identifies current needs, and maintains an ongoing dialogue with international partners to secure the necessary assistance.

The parties also discussed prospects for expanding cooperation. Potential areas include the further restoration and modernisation of medical infrastructure, emergency response, and the provision of essential medical equipment to healthcare facilities.

Overall, the Ministry of Health and UNOPS continue their systematic cooperation aimed at creating a modern and sustainable healthcare infrastructure, improving working conditions for healthcare workers and ensuring patients have access to high-quality medical care.

Background

HEAL Ukraine (Health Enhancement and Lifesaving) is a joint project of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine and the World Bank, aimed at supporting the healthcare system in a wartime context. The project funds measures to restore and improve access to healthcare services, particularly in the areas of rehabilitation and mental health, as well as to respond to new and urgent patient needs. The project’s total funding amounts to USD 500 million.